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Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women around the world. However, a whopping 93% of cervical cancer cases are preventable. HPV vaccinations, regular cervical screenings and check-ups are all that it takes to ensure the same.
This Cervical Screening Awareness Week, we aim to spread awareness about prevention and early detection of this disease. In this blog, we take you through why you should schedule regular cervical screenings, how they work, and the benefits they provide in preventing cervical cancer.
What is Cervical Screening?
Cervical screening is also more commonly known as Pap smear or Pap test. A precautionary procedure, it detects abnormal cell growth in the cervix, that could develop into cervical cancer. Regular cervical screenings help catch cervical cancer far before it takes root.
Why Early Detection Matters
Cervical screenings can detect abnormal growth even before the changes become cancerous and develop into invasive cervical cancer. This is why early detection matters as the chances of successful treatment are increased manifold and it may even prevent the cancer from developing.
Types of Cervical Screenings
Things to Keep in Mind When Preparing for a Cervical Screening
- Schedule the test when you are not menstruating.
- Avoid using vaginal medications, spermicidal foams, creams, or jellies for 48 hours before the test.
- Do not douch or have sexual intercourse for 48 hours before the test.
What to Expect During a Screening
The screening is usually quick, and will take about 10-20 minutes. Your doctor will ask you to lie on an exam table and use a speculum to gently widen the vagina and collect cells from the cervix. These will then be examined under a microscope and checked for any abnormalities.
Reducing the Risk of Cervical Cancer
In addition to regular screenings, here are some other ways to reduce the risk of cervical cancer:
- HPV Vaccination: HPV causes almost 99.7% of cervical cancer cases. It is recommended that girls and women between the ages of 9 and 45 get the HPV vaccine for complete protection against cervical cancer.
- Safe Sex Practices: Since HPV is contracted through sexual intercourse, using condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners is vital.
- Avoiding Smoking: Smoking is the leading cause of most cancers and also increases the risk of cervical cancer.
Common Questions About Cervical Screenings
Women between the ages of 21 to 65 should get regular cervical screenings. How often you require screenings will differ based on your age and health history.
Women aged 21-29 should have a Pap test every three years. Women aged 30-65 should have a Pap test combined with an HPV test every five years or a Pap test alone every three years.
While cervical screenings can be uncomfortable, they are usually not painful. Any discomfort is only brief.
Get Your Screening Done Today
Cervical screenings are something that need to be a part of every woman’s life. Here’s a quick guide on how often you should get your cervical screenings done based on your age group:
Ages 21 to 29:
- Start getting Pap tests at age 21.
- If your test result is normal, you can wait three years until your next Pap test.
Ages 30 to 65:
Discuss with your doctor which testing option is right for you:- Primary HPV testing: An HPV test alone every 5 years.
- Co-testing: An HPV test along with a Pap test every 5 years.
- Pap test only: If your result is normal, you can wait three years until your next Pap test.
Ages older than 65:
You may not need screening anymore if:- You’ve had at least three Pap tests or two HPV tests in the past 10 years, and the results were normal or negative.
- You haven’t had cervical precancer in the past.
- You’ve had your cervix removed as part of a total hysterectomy for non-cancerous conditions.
Cervical screening is a simple step that can make a huge difference. Also, strongly consider getting the HPV vaccine, especially if you are a woman below the age of 45.
Let’s work together to bring down the rates of this preventable cancer through awareness, regular screenings, and vaccination. Your health is worth it – take action now and encourage others to do the same!
Contact Details
Corporate office:
Shafee Mohammed Road, Chennai 600 006, India.
Contact Details
Corporate office:
Shafee Mohammed Road, Chennai 600 006, India.