The use of a condom is essential to protect yourself and your partners against STDs. It is recommended that women aged between 25 and 64 have HPV screening and that young girls aged from 12 to 14 years old (up to 18 years old) are vaccinated against HPV.
How can an HPV infection be diagnosed?
An HPV infection of the cervix usually disappears spontaneously. However, when the infection persists, lesions may develop. These can be diagnosed through a swab test.
Flanders organises a cervical cancer screening where a free swab test is offered to women aged between 25 and 64 who are not at particular risk, every three years.
In Brussels and Wallonia, women in the same age group can be fully reimbursed for a swab test every three years. This is done on a completely voluntary basis.