Cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths in women worldwide. Because of its association with human papilloma virus infection, as well as the ability to screen for premalignant stages of the disease, it is now largely a preventable disease. This article describes the molecular basis for cervical cancer, and presents a clinical overview of current treatment approaches and technological advances, emphasizing the unique aspects of this viral disease as it relates to the immune system and vaccination or other immunotherapeutic strategies.