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Share Your Story

Have you been affected by an HPV-associated cancer? Sharing your experience can help others feel less alone, recognise symptoms sooner and understand why screening and the HPV vaccine matter.

Why share your story?

Help others feel less alone

Hearing from someone who has been through the same thing can make a diagnosis, treatment or recovery feel less isolating.

Help people spot the signs

Real experiences show what symptoms can look like, and why it matters to see a GP if something doesn’t feel right.

Break the stigma

HPV is very common and nothing to be ashamed of. Talking openly helps more people feel able to ask questions and get checked.

Encourage screening

A personal story can be the reason someone finally books the smear test they’ve been putting off.

Show why the vaccine matters

Stories help parents, young people and adults understand how the HPV vaccine protects against cancer.

Support research and awareness

Your experience helps us shape our talks and resources so they answer the questions people really have.

Who can share

We’d love to hear from anyone, of any age or gender, who has been affected by:

  • cervical, anal, head and neck (including throat), vulval, vaginal or penile cancer
  • abnormal cervical screening results or cell changes, such as CIN, VIN or AIN
  • caring for, or supporting, a partner, family member or friend with an HPV-associated cancer

Your story doesn’t need to be long or polished. Share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with.

What happens next

  1. 01Tell us your story using the form below.
  2. 02We’ll read it and get in touch with you before anything is shared.
  3. 03Together we’ll agree any edits, and whether it appears with your name, your first name only or anonymously.
  4. 04You can ask us to change or remove your story at any time.

Tell us your story

You might want to tell us:

  • how you found out, and any symptoms you noticed
  • your experience of screening, tests or treatment
  • how it affected you and the people around you
  • how you’re doing now
  • what you wish you’d known, or what you’d like others to know

Please don’t include other people’s names or personal details without their permission.

Sharing something personal can bring up difficult feelings. If you need someone to talk to, our Support page lists organisations that can help. We can’t give medical advice, so if you’re worried about your health, contact your GP or call NHS 111.

Share your story