Condoms can reduce the risk of HPV infection if they are used every time. A small number of genital HPVs are linked to cancers of the cervix, vulva, vagina, anus, and penis. Long-term infections with these HPVs increase the risk of cervical cancer. Most women recover from HPV infections with no health problems at all. Most genital HPV infections go away by themselves within six months.
Pap tests are the best protection against cervical cancer.
The clinician inserts a sterile metal or plastic speculum into the vagina. The speculum is opened to separate the walls of the vagina. It holds the walls apart so that the cervix can be seen. The cells are tested for abnormalities. As the clinician removes the speculum, the vaginal walls are checked for irritation, injury, and any other problems.