Is cervical canceer like a STD

Thank you so much you anwserd my question.

Hi Rebecca - Thank you for writing, I think I understand why you are asking your question, and will provide as best an answer as I can, but please let me know if anything is unclear.

Women can experience a condition known as cervical dysplasia which is the presence of abnormal changes in the epithelial cells covering the surface of the cervix. In some cases, these cells are precancerous and can lead to cervical cancer if they aren't treated.

The reason the cells change is they have been infected with the human papillomavirus or HPV. HPV infections are sexually transmitted. There are several different types of HPV. They are categorized as either high or low risk based on their likelihood to cause significant cervical disease such as cancer.

Cervical cancer is not a sexually transmitted disease. Cervical cancer, however, can be a result from someone having untreated HPV. There are several other causes of cervical cancer, and you can learn more from the American Cancer Society at this link: http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_2_2X_What_causes_cancer_of_the_cervix_Can_it_be_prevented_8.asp

Please let us know if we've answered your concerns, or if you have any additional questions. We're here to help you. Take care, Pat