Cervical cancer develops when abnormal cells in the cervix grow uncontrollably, and several factors can increase a woman's risk. The primary risk factor is persistent infection with high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), which is transmitted through sexual contact. Early sexual activity, having multiple sexual partners, or having a partner with multiple partners can raise the chances of HPV exposure. A weakened immune system, whether due to HIV infection, long-term steroid use, or other health conditions, also makes it harder for the body to clear HPV infections, increasing cancer risk.

Additional risk factors relate to lifestyle and reproductive history. Long-term use of oral contraceptives, having many full-term pregnancies, and becoming pregnant at a young age have also been linked to increased risk. Lack of regular cervical screening (Pap tests or HPV tests) can delay the detection of precancerous changes, allowing them to progress into cancer over time.