A well-proven way to prevent cervical cancer is to have testing (screening). Screening can find conditions that may lead to pre-cancers and can find pre-cancers before they can turn into invasive cancer. The Pap test (or Pap smear) and the human papillomavirus (HPV) test are specific tests used during screenings for cervical cancer. If a pre-cancer is found it can be treated, stopping cervical cancer before it really starts.
The Pap test or smear is a procedure used to collect cells from the cervix so that they can be looked at under a microscope to find cancer and pre-cancers. It's important to know that most invasive cervical cancers are found in women who have not had regular Pap tests. A Pap test can be done during a pelvic exam, but not all pelvic exams include a Pap test.
The most important thing you can do to prevent cervical cancer is to be tested according to American Cancer Society guidelines. These can be found in Cervical Cancer Prevention and Early Detection. Information on treatment if the Pap test results are abnormal is also covered.
Based on your age, overall health, and personal risk for cervical cancer, here are some things that may prevent pre-cancers and conditions that lead to pre-cancers.
More information about ways to prevent cervical pre-cancer and cancer can be found in Cervical Cancer Prevention and Early Detection.
You can also find information on preventing HPV infection in HPV Vaccines.