Protective Factors

Vaccine - The HPV vaccine is arguably the greatest protection now available. It is routinely offered to girls aged between 12 and 13, and it also protects against cervical cancer.

Screening - Regular cervical smear tests can pick up cell changes involved in vaginal cancer, but cervical screening is not guarranteed to detect vaginal cancer

Personal hygiene - One study has suggested that washing the genital area before and after intercourse may reduce the risk of vaginal cancer but more studies are needed to confirm this. We cannot at present say that following this advice will prevent vaginal cancer.