January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month!

The World Health Organization has a plan to drastically reduce cervical cancer occurrence by 2030.

Vaccination: The HPV vaccine has been around since 2006. In that time, rates of cervical cancer incidence have dropped significantly among vaccinated women. One study from Sweden looked at 11 years (2006 through 2017) and found 90% reduction in cervical cancer incidence compared with the incidence in women who had not been vaccinated. Vaccination prevents cancer!

Screening: The goal of cervical cancer screening—Pap tests and HPV tests—is to find problems, like cell changes, so they can be treated before they turn into cancer. Testing has changed quite a bit in the last several years and there are more options than ever.

For women ages 21-29 – the recommendation by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force is to screen with a Pap smear every 3 years.

At the age of 30 until 65, women should get a Pap smear and a HPV test every 5 years.

Breaking News!!!!

Most of the time, these tests are done in a gynecology, family medicine or internal medicine office. Recently, there is a new test approved for self-testing where the woman can perform the vaginal swab herself. The hope is that even more women will get tested by eliminating the anxiety that can come with a pelvic exam in a medical office. The self-test looks for HPV and can be an option for women who do not feel comfortable in a provider’s office.

Know the symptoms of cervical cancer

See a doctor straight away if you experience:

• Irregular bleeding between periods, after the menopause or after sexual intercourse

• Increased or foul-smelling vaginal discharge

• Persistent pain in the back, legs or pelvis

• Weight loss, fatigue and loss of appetite

• Vaginal discomfort

• Swelling of legs.

Cervical cancer in its early stages may present NO symptoms. This is why regular cervical cancer screening is important, even if vaccinated against HPV.

Know your risks, get vaccinated and do routine screening. It could save your life.