Regular gynaecological tests are crucial, as cervical cancer can be prevented if the infection and/or lesions are detected at an early stage:

• Pap smear, or vaginal cytology, helps detect cervical lesions at a very early stage.
• HPV test, besides detecting the infection, identifies the type of HPV.
  A positive HPV test or an abnormal Pap smear does not mean that you will develop cancer, in most cases the infection and lesions will resolve by themselves. However, women with abnormal results should be evaluated using the following tests:
  • Colposcopy involves examining the cervix using a “colposcope”, which allows the cervix to be assessed more accurately. This test does not usually cause any more discomfort than the cytology test.
    If colposcopy reveals any changes in the cervix that may suggest a lesion, a cervical biopsy should be performed.
  • Biopsy is generally required to definitively diagnose a precancerous lesion of the uterine cervix.

There are topical and oral treatments available that can help fight HPV infection and heal the affected areas.

The specialist will decide on the most appropriate treatment if cervical lesions appear. It is really important to follow their advice and instructions.

There are products available on the market that can help prevent and treat cervical lesions caused by HPV.