The article also discusses unprotected sex as an important factor. Condoms cannot completely prevent HPV because the virus can spread through skin-to-skin contact, but they can reduce transmission risk and help protect against other sexually transmitted infections.
Smoking is another concern. Tobacco exposure can weaken the body’s ability to clear HPV and is associated with abnormal changes in cervical cells. Secondhand smoke may also contribute to health risks, making avoiding tobacco beneficial for both partners.
Sex during menstruation does not directly cause cervical cancer, despite claims sometimes made online. The most effective prevention measures remain HPV vaccination, recommended Pap or HPV screening, avoiding smoking, practicing safer sex, and seeking medical care for unusual bleeding, persistent pelvic pain, or abnormal discharge.
