Sexual intercourse can cause cervical cancer

By Jennifer Umaña
Daily Forty-Niner

What? You can get cancer from sex?

Human papillomavirus can lead to warts on various body parts of those who contract it. Some types, however, can lead to cervical cancer.

According to the American Social Health Association, "certain high-risk strains of HPV cause cervical lesions which, over a period of time, can develop into cancer if untreated."

The virus, of which there are more than 70 types, is passed through skin-to-skin contact, not through bodily fluids like other sexually transmitted diseases, according to the American Social Health Association Web site. This means that use of a condom during sex cannot completely prevent the spread of the virus.

Cervical cancer is detectable through Pap smears, which are available at Cal State Long Beach students Student Health Services for a $35 fee. Medication, X-rays and lab fees cost extra.

"If you have any concerns about cervical cancer or HPV, call and make an appointment," said Larry Harvey, the clinical coordinator of the Student Health Center "If it is a more immediate problem, walk in."

At the examination, the doctor or nurse will do a work-up in order to assess the situation, Harvey said. If the test results require further study, the student can then make an appointment to visit the gynecological specialist, who comes in to the center twice a month.

Students who visit the on-campus specialist for free have a better compliance than those who visit a physician off campus, which would cost about $250, Harvey said

The Health Resource Center conducts presentations on Sexual Health Awareness with information on STDs and birth control every Tuesday and Wednesday.