If you’re like most women, you dread the gynecologist. It’s awkward, uncomfortable, and did we mention awkward?! Awkwardness aside, put a Pap smear on your to do list for this month. January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and simple screening tests can literally save your life.
Every year in the United States, approximately 12,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer–and over 4,000 end up dying as a result. Most of these cases are preventable, as cervical cancer can be prevented or detected early on with a Pap smear or HPV test.
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the leading cause of most cases of cervical cancer. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted disease there is. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that almost half of sexually active people will have HPV at some point in their lives. Most people won’t even know they have it, because it can be symptomless. Usually the immune system is able to kill the virus on its own or it resolves itself within two years. However, in a very small percentage of women, the virus lingers and can eventually cause cervical cancer. Men can get HPV as well, although they cannot get cervical cancer.
It’s also possible for women to get cervical cancer without having HPV, but it’s rare.
Like HPV, early stage cervical cancer may not show any symptoms. Symptoms, such as abnormal vaginal bleeding and discharge, may not occur until the cancer is in its later stages, and it then becomes more difficult to treat. This is why prevention and early detection is by far the best treatment plan.
Here’s what you can do to prevent HPV and cervical cancer:
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Use condoms; HPV can still occur with condom use, but using condoms is associated with a lower risk of cervical cancer.
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If you’re a woman between 21 and 65 years of age, see your gynecologist to get a Pap and/or HPV test. Women should start getting Paps at age 21. Starting at age 30, you can also get an HPV test, even if your Pap smear results are normal. Your doctor will know which tests are right for you, based on your age and health history.
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If you’re between 11 and 26 years of age, you can get the HPV vaccine. The CDC recommends this vaccine for both males and females, since males can contract HPV. Talk to your doctor to see if this is right for you.
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If you’re a parent of a child 11 years of age or older, talk to your primary care doctor about getting them vaccinated for HPV. While anyone over 11 and under 27 can get the vaccine, the CDC recommends that it be given between the ages of 11 and 13, or before there’s been any sexual activity and exposure to HPV. Don’t forget that boys can get the vaccine as well! Even though they aren’t at risk for cervical cancer, they are still at risk for HPV.
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If you are experiencing abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge, like bleeding after sex, see your doctor. There are many other possible causes besides cancer, but only your doctor will be able to tell exactly what’s going on.
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Don’t smoke; smoking increases the risk of cervical cancer.
If you have insurance, the health care reform laws have expanded to include preventative care, like well woman visits, as part of your coverage. This means that you will be covered for a Pap smear and/or HPV test.
If you don’t have insurance, no worries. There are free and/or low cost options available to you.
You can call 1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) or visit the CDC’s website to learn more about these options in your area: http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/nbccedp/screenings.htm
April Dawn (@scarlettsinatra)
3 Comments
Bullshit. It’s all about money.