How To Check For Cervical Cancer - This Simple Test Could Save Your Life

January is cervical cancer awareness month, and there’s no better time than now to brush up on your knowledge of the signs, symptoms, treatments, and preventative measures for this serious disease. With an estimated 13,170 new cases of cervical cancer in 2020 alone, women everywhere need to know how to protect themselves from this potentially life-threatening disease. Read on for all you need to know about cervical cancer prevention!

What Causes Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common virus that can be spread through sexual contact with another person. It can also be spread through skin-to-skin contact of the genital area. Most people will get infected by HPV at some point in their lives; however, not everyone infected with HPV will develop cervical cancer.

How Can I Reduce My Risk of Developing Cervical Cancer?

The most effective way to reduce your risk of developing cervical cancer is to get vaccinated against HPV. The FDA has approved two vaccines—Gardasil and Cervarix—for preventing HPV infection and the cancers associated with it. These vaccines are recommended for young adults between the ages of 9 and 26 years old who have not already been infected with the virus. Additionally, practicing safe sex and regular Pap smear screenings are recommended for all women over 21 years old as a form of early detection. Pap smears detect abnormal cells in the cervix before they become precancerous or cancerous lesions.

How Is Cervical Cancer Diagnosed & Treated?

Cervical cancer is usually diagnosed after a woman experiences certain signs or symptoms such as abnormal bleeding or discharge from her vagina. If these symptoms are present, a doctor may recommend a biopsy and other tests such as an imaging test (e.g., MRI or CT scan). Once diagnosed, treatment options depend on the stage of the cancer but may include surgery and/or radiation therapy. Chemotherapy is sometimes used if the cancer has spread beyond its original site in the cervix.

All women should protect themselves from developing cervical cancer by getting vaccinated against HPV when appropriate and undergoing regular Pap smear screenings as part of their annual checkup starting at age 21 (or earlier if recommended by your doctor). By taking these preventative measures, you can be proactive about protecting yourself from this severe illness!