Cervical Cancer Screening & HPV Vaccination in Chennai

The HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9 / Cervavac) protects against the human papillomavirus strains that cause >90% of cervical cancers, plus genital warts and several other HPV-linked cancers. It is recommended for girls and boys aged 9–14 (2 doses), with catch-up vaccination up to age 26 (3 doses). Women aged 27–45 may also benefit — discuss with our gynaecologist.

The HPV DNA test detects high-risk HPV strains (such as HPV 16 and 18) in cervical cells before they cause cancer. A small sample is collected from the cervix during a quick pelvic examination — similar to a Pap smear. It is the most sensitive primary screening test for women aged 30 and above.

HPV screening is a 5-minute outpatient procedure performed by our female gynaecologists in a private examination room. A small brush collects cells from the cervix; the sample is sent to our NABL-accredited lab. Results are available in 3–5 working days and reviewed in a follow-up consultation.

No. Most women feel mild pressure or a brief cramp lasting a few seconds. The test takes less than 5 minutes. Our female gynaecologists prioritise comfort and privacy throughout.

HPV vaccine pricing at Iswarya Hospital starts from approximately ₹2,000–₹3,500 per dose for the indigenous Cervavac vaccine, and ₹7,500–₹10,500 per dose for Gardasil 9. Total course cost depends on age (2-dose under 15 vs 3-dose at 15+). Call 044 2025 2025 for current package pricing.

For women 21–29, the Pap smear (cytology) every 3 years is recommended. For women 30–65, primary HPV DNA testing every 5 years — or co-testing (Pap + HPV) every 5 years — is preferred because it detects high-risk HPV before cellular changes appear. Your gynaecologist will recommend the right approach for you.

Cervical cancer screening should begin at age 21, regardless of sexual history, and continue through age 65 in women with normal results. Screening frequency depends on your age and the type of test used. Earlier or more frequent screening may be recommended if you are immunocompromised or have a history of abnormal results.

Yes. The HPV vaccine is recommended for boys aged 9–14 (2 doses) with catch-up to age 26 (3 doses). It protects against genital warts, anal cancer, and several head-and-neck cancers caused by HPV, and reduces transmission to partners.

Yes. The HPV vaccine has been used safely worldwide for over 15 years, with hundreds of millions of doses administered. The most common side effects are mild — soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever, or headache lasting 1–2 days. Serious adverse events are extremely rare.

Women aged 21–29: Pap smear every 3 years. Women aged 30–65: HPV DNA test every 5 years, or HPV+Pap co-test every 5 years, or Pap smear alone every 3 years. After age 65 with consistently normal results, screening may stop. After hysterectomy for benign reasons, screening is generally not needed.