This Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, learn how to protect your health

[H1] This Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, learn how to protect your health

January is National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. And a great time to think about how much you know about your cervical health and what you can do to protect it—especially from cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer affects the cervix, which is the lower end of the uterus. In the past, cervical cancer was much more common (and deadly) in the U.S. That’s because before routine pelvic exams with Pap smear tests, providers would find cervical cancer in its advanced stages, when it’s not as treatable. Thanks to cervical cancer screenings and vaccines, rates of cervical cancer continue to decrease among Americans.

Even still, the American Cancer Society estimates that there will be almost 14,000 new cases of cervical cancer this year, with hundreds of them affecting people in Louisiana. But you can protect your cervical health with the right screenings and quality women’s health services from LCMC Health.

[H2] What causes cervical cancer?

Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, a sexually transmitted virus.

[H2] What are cervical cancer symptoms?

In its earliest stages, you may not have any cervical cancer symptoms. Some women experience unusual vaginal bleeding, vaginal discharge, or pelvic pain. “Unusual” may mean vaginal bleeding after sex, after menopause, or between periods—all potential signs of cervical cancer.

As cervical cancer gets more advanced, it may cause other symptoms, including:

· Painful or difficult bowel movements or urination

· Pain in the abdomen or back

· Leg swelling

· Extreme fatigue

[H2] How to prevent cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is the most treatable in its earliest stages. So, the earlier we find it, the better. There are two main ways you can prevent cervical cancer: get recommended cervical cancer screenings and get the HPV vaccine. Ultimately, you’ll want to talk with your women’s health provider (like an OBGYN) about the screening routine that’s best for you.

[H3] Get a cervical cancer screening (Pap smear test)

In most cases, your provider can spot cervical cancer in its precancerous stage—before it develops into cancer—with a routine Pap test. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends a Pap test to screen for cervical cancer every three years if you’re 21–29 years old. Those ages 30–65 can either:

· Continue having a Pap test every three years

· Have an HPV test every five years

· Have both a Pap test and HPV test every five years

[H3] Ask about the HPV vaccine

The HPV vaccine can add another layer of protection to your cervical health. It’s usually given in two doses to children ages 11–14. Beyond that, teens and young adults can also receive the vaccine. Beginning at age 15, you need three doses. In some cases, your provider may recommend the vaccine if you’re an adult age 26–45.

Research has shown that the HPV vaccine has been highly effective in reducing cervical precancers for vaccinated women—reducing cancer rates by as much as 40%. Because HPV is also associated with other types of cancer, including anal and oral cancers, getting the vaccine may help prevent those cancers, too.

[H2] Schedule a well-woman checkup

There are great preventive health tools to support your cervical health. Not sure where to start? Schedule an appointment with a women’s health provider. A well-woman checkup makes sure you stay healthy during cervical cancer month and beyond.