Since HPV is the leading cause behind most cases of cervical cancer, protecting yourself from this virus is essential. Vaccines like Gardasil and Cervarix can dramatically reduce your risk. They work best when given before you become sexually active, and they're recommended for both boys and girls.

Here are a few extra ways to lower your risk:

Keep your sexual partners few - Fewer partners can mean a lower chance of HPV exposure.

Practice safe sex - Using condoms or other barrier methods during any sexual activity—be it vaginal, oral, or anal—can help protect you against HPV and other infections.

If your Pap smear ever shows abnormal results, it means changes in your cervix need attention. Discuss the next steps with your healthcare provider to stay on top of your health.