Introduction

In today’s world of advanced healthcare, awareness remains one of the most powerful tools women have to protect their health. Among the many health concerns that affect women globally, HPV (human papillomavirus) and cervical cancer are two of the most important—and yet often misunderstood—issues. Every year, more than 600,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer worldwide, with the vast majority of cases caused by persistent HPV infections. Despite these alarming figures, both conditions are highly preventable with the right knowledge, screening, and medical care.

The goal of this article is to provide clear, medically accurate, and empathetic guidance on HPV and cervical cancer. At Second Spring Women’s Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, our mission is to empower women with knowledge and offer the most advanced diagnostic and preventive care. Whether you are a local resident or visiting us from abroad, your health is our priority.

We will explore what HPV is, how it’s linked to cervical cancer, early warning signs, and how routine screening can save lives. With personalized treatment plans and compassionate care, Second Spring Women’s Clinic is here to support every woman’s journey to wellness.

Understanding HPV: The Virus Behind the Risk

HPV (human papillomavirus) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) globally, affecting up to 80% of sexually active women at some point in their lives. There are more than 100 known HPV types, but around 14 of them are classified as high-risk HPV types due to their potential to cause cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers, such as vaginal, vulvar, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers.

HPV spreads primarily through intimate skin-to-skin contact, most commonly via vaginal, anal, or oral sex. You don’t need to have multiple partners to get HPV—even one sexual encounter can lead to infection, and symptoms often don’t appear for years. This makes regular screening essential.

Most HPV infections are harmless and are cleared by the immune system within two years. However, persistent infection with high-risk strains (like HPV 16 and 18) can lead to cellular changes in the cervix—referred to as cervical dysplasia—that may progress to cancer if left untreated. Understanding how HPV behaves in the body helps us understand the critical importance of early detection and prevention.