The leading cause of cervical cancer in women is the presence of the human papilloma virus (HPV). HPV is spread through sexual contact and most people will contract it at some point in their lives. When an HPV infection does not resolve on its own and is not screened for and treated, it can result in abnormal cells in the cervix which may become cervical cancer.
It’s important to get tested for HPV as part of early detection for cervical cancer. An HPV screening test can identify if you are at an increased risk of cervical cancer.