Cervical Cancer and Sexual Activity

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is one of the most common types of cancer among women, and typically has no symptoms in its early stages, making it difficult to detect. Sexual activity has been linked to cervical cancer: certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) are spread through sexual contact, and these are believed to be the cause of most cases of the disease. As such, it is important for sexually active women to have regular screenings and Pap smears, which can detect pre-cancerous cells before they become malignant. If cervical cancer is detected early, it can be successfully treated, potentially saving the lives of millions of women each year.