Women who become sexually active early, who have multiple sexual partners, and whose sexual partners have other partners are at increased risk. Nonsexual transmission is also possible. The virus often disappears, but viral DNA can be detected in cervical cells for years after infection. Scientists have concluded that there is a causal relationship between HPV and cervical cancer. Scientists continue to study other factors that may also be required for the development of cancer, such as changes in the immune system.
Most infections appear to go away on their own without causing any kind of abnormality.
With regular follow-up care by trained clinicians, women with precancerous cervical abnormalities should not develop invasive cervical cancer. Researchers think that less than 10 percent of all LSIL and HSIL have no HPV DNA present. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on this site is not meant to serve as a medical prescription for you.