Can human papillomavirus (HPV) infection be prevented?
Yes. Vaccination can prevent infection by the HPV types that cause about 70% of cervical cancers (more than 2 out of 3). However, vaccination is only effective for people who have not yet been infected with the virus. For this reason, it is recommended to vaccinate girls before they become sexually active. The chances of getting an HPV infection increase with the number of sexual partners. Use of condoms can reduce, but cannot completely prevent, the spread of HPV between sexual partners.