Healthy Her | Cervical Cancer & HPV

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when cells in the cervix grow abnormally and spread to other parts of the body. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) play a role in causing most cervical cancers. HPV is a common infection that's passed through sexual contact. When exposed to HPV, the body's immune system typically prevents the virus from doing harm. In a small percentage of people, however, the virus survives for years. This contributes to the process that causes some cervical cells to become cancer cells.

Reducing Your Risk of Cervical Cancer

To reduce your risk of cervical cancer:

• Ask your doctor about the HPV vaccine. Receiving a vaccination to prevent HPV infection may reduce your risk of cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers. Ask your healthcare provider if an HPV vaccine is right for you.
• Have routine Pap smear tests. A pap smear test can detect precancerous conditions of the cervix. This test is typically included in a yearly gynecological exam starting at age 21.
• Practice safe sex.
• Don't smoke. When HPV infections happen in people who smoke, the infections tend to last longer and are less likely to go away. If you do smoke, talk to a healthcare professional about ways to help you quit.

The HPV vaccine can help prevent cervical cancer. The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Gardasil-9 for people aged 9–45. The vaccine is the most effective for those who have not yet been exposed to HPV. If you have a child in this age range, talk to their pediatrician to see if the HPV vaccine is right for them. Since HPV infection can cause other kinds of cancers as well, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that boys and girls be vaccinated to help prevent the spread of HPV.

Understanding Cervical Cancer Symptoms

In the early stages, cervical cancer may not cause any symptoms. So, it is important to have a routine gynecological screening each year to screen your cervical health.

As it progresses, cervical cancer might cause symptoms such as:

• Vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between periods, or after menopause.
• Menstrual bleeding that is heavier and lasts longer than usual.
• Watery, bloody vaginal discharge that may be heavy and have a foul odor.
• Pelvic pain or pain during sexual intercourse.

If you experience any of these symptoms, reach out to your healthcare provider.

Infirmary Health Family Medicine physician, Dr. Kristie Spellings, provides more information on cervical cancer and the HPV vaccine at this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-x7i0Y8Xd1M

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