This type of cancer develops in the cervix, the opening of the vagina below the uterus.

Certain types of the human papillomavirus can cause genital warts and cancer.

For example, types 6 and 11 of the virus cause genital warts. Types 16 and 18 of the virus can cause cancer and more serious health conditions.

There is no cure for human papillomavirus.

There are vaccines to prevent infection with the types of viruses that cause cancer. In Sri Lanka, all girls from grade 6 onwards are given these vaccines through the National Immunization Program. Cervical cancer can be effectively prevented by getting this vaccine before their first sexual intercourse.

Download the fact sheet about the human papillomavirus vaccine – HYPERLINK.

Early detection of human papillomavirus can prevent serious health conditions. Therefore, it is important for sexually active women to undergo pap smears. In Sri Lanka, sexually active women over the age of 35 can get pap smears free of charge from the closest ‘Suwanari Clinic’ at the Medical Officer of Health [MOH] premises.

Sexually active women of any age can also get this test done from private clinics or hospitals.