Myth #6: We don't need an HPV vaccine. Pap testing catches cervical cancer early, so it can be treated.

Fact: Pap tests are an extremely important part of fighting cervical cancer. But the HPV vaccine helps prevent it in the first place — and helps many women avoid further uncomfortable tests and uncertainty.

The Pap test identifies changes in the tissues that may progress to cancer of the cervix. Further tests are needed to determine if it is cancer, and if so, then treatments are needed. These tests and treatments can be uncomfortable and frightening.
The vaccine will prevent more than 60% of the infections that cause the changes to the cervix and will decrease the need for further tests and treatments. In BC each year, the vaccine could save more than 10,000 women from having these additional tests.

HPV Myths

HPV vaccine