For Women

WHAT IS HPV AND CERVICAL CANCER?
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a very common virus mainly transmitted through sexual contact. Some types of HPV can cause lesions that, over time, may develop into cancer. More than 95% of cervical cancer cases are linked to this virus.


WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
In the early stages, cervical cancer often has no symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they may include:

  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding (after sexual intercourse, between periods, or after menopause)
  • Unusual vaginal discharge
  • Pain during sexual intercourse
  • Persistent pelvic pain

HOW IS IT TRANSMITTED?
HPV is mainly transmitted through sexual contact. It is very common: about 80% of sexually active people will get HPV at least once in their life. In most cases, the infection causes no symptoms and resolve spontaneously within 1–2 years. However, in some cases -especially if infections are repeated, long lasting, or if a person has a weak immune system- it can lead to cervical cancer.

HOW CAN IT BE PREVENTED?

  • HPV vaccination: offered free of charge in Italy to girls and boys starting at age 11, up to 25 years old. After that age, it is still available but must be paid for.
  • Regular screening: PAP test or HPV test for early detection of lesions. In Italy, resident women receive an invitation every 3 years between the age of 25 and 30/35 for a PAP test, and every 5 years between the age of 30/35 and 64 for an HPV test. Participation is always free and not mandatory.
  • Use of condoms: helps reducing the risk of HPV and other sexually transmitted infections.

WHAT IS OFFERED IN ITALY TO RESIDENT WOMEN?
The National Health Service (SSN) offers free of charge:

  • HPV vaccination: for adolescents and, in some regions, for young adults.
  • Cervical screening programs: PAP test or HPV test every 3 or 5 years, depending on age and region.

Participation is always free and voluntary but strongly recommended.

WHAT IF YOU ARE NOT A RESIDENT IN ITALY?
Even if you don’t have a residence permit, you still have the right to receive information and assistance for your health.

Where You Can Go:

Family Counseling Centers and Immigrant Women’s Spaces: in many Italian cities, they offer free and open-access services (no doctors prescription needed). Here you can receive:

  • Gynecological and obstetric check-ups
  • Pap tests and HPV tests
  • Advice on contraception, pregnancy, and cancer prevention
  • Social and psychological support
  • Help from cultural mediators to assist with communication

Check these links to find the nearest service:

Emilia Romagna: 

Italy:

  • Vediamocichiara
  • Contact support associations: many organizations offer free assistance and information in different languages.

Check these links to find the nearest service:

Emilia Romagna: 

Italy: