Can You Prevent Cervical Cancer?

Most women know about Cervical cancer, but few are fully aware of the risks and consequences they face. In this blog post, we will outline the most common cervical cancer risk factors and offer advice on reducing your chances of developing the disease.

Cervical cancer occurs in the cervix cells - the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It's the most common cancer among women in developed countries and the third-most common cancer in women worldwide.

Causes:

All women are at risk for cervical cancer. It occurs most often in women over age 30. Long-lasting infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main cause of cervical cancer. HPV is a common virus passed from one person to another during sex.

Warning signs of Cervical Cancer:

• An unusual discharge from the vagina which may contain some blood
• Itching and burning sensations in the vagina
• Pain during sex
• Unexplained fatigue
• Frequent or urgent urination
• Lower back or abdominal pain
• Abdominal bloating

But cervical cancer can be prevented with early detection.

There are several things women can do to reduce their risk of developing cervical cancer, including

• Getting the HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine is recommended for girls and young women aged 9-26.

There are three types of vaccines:

• Bivalent vaccine - effective against two common strains of HPV.
• Quadrivalent vaccine - effective against four strains of HPV and offers protection from genital warts.
• Nonavalent vaccine

The cervical cancer vaccine, or the HPV vaccine, protects against the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is the main cause of cervical cancer. This vaccine can be administered as early as age 9 and as late as 45. This vaccination has a 90% success rate for preventing cervical cancer, so it's worth it.

• Get regular Pap tests. Pap tests can detect changes in the cells of the cervix, which may be cancerous or precancerous.
• Contraceptive methods can help protect against the spread of HPV.
• Limit your number of sexual partners. The more sexual partners you have, the greater your risk of HPV infection.
• Don’t smoke. Smoking increases the risk of cervical cancer.

Make sure to get regular check-ups and talk to your doctor about the best way to protect yourself.

While the risk of cervical, vaginal and vulvar cancers will be reduced by getting the vaccine, it is still important to visit the gynaecologist for routine gynaecological exams and preventive care as appropriate.

Consult a gynaecologist right away!