Cervical Cancer

Prevention of Cervical Cancer

Protecting Your Health. Preventing Disease. Saving Lives.

What Is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is a cancer that starts in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus (womb) that opens into the vagina. It usually develops slowly over many years, beginning with precancerous changes in cervical cells.

The most important fact:
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers in women.

What Causes Cervical Cancer?

The main cause is persistent infection with Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

About HPV:

• HPV is a very common virus
• Spread through sexual contact
• Most women will get HPV at some point in life
• In many cases, the body clears the virus naturally
• Persistent high-risk HPV types can cause cervical cancer over time

Who Is at Risk?

Any woman who has:

• Been sexually active
• Early age at first intercourse
• Multiple sexual partners
• A partner with multiple partners
• Smoking habit
• Weak immunity (HIV, long-term steroid use)
• Poor follow-up or lack of screening

Cervical cancer can occur even without symptoms in early stages

How Can Cervical Cancer Be Prevented?

Prevention works at three levels:

1. Primary Prevention – Stop Cancer Before It Starts

HPV Vaccination

HPV vaccination protects against the high-risk HPV types that cause most cervical cancers.

Who should get the vaccine?

• Girls aged 9–14 years (best protection)
• Women up to 45 years can still benefit
• Even if married or sexually active, vaccination is useful

How many doses?

• 2 doses (9–14 years)
• 3 doses (15 years and above)

Important points:

• Vaccine does not treat existing infection
• Vaccine does not replace screening
• Very safe, with mild side effects like pain or fever

2. Secondary Prevention – Detect Changes Early

Cervical Cancer Screening

Screening finds precancerous changes before cancer develops.

Pap Smear Test

• Simple test done during pelvic examination
• Detects abnormal cervical cells
• Painless, takes only a few minutes

HPV DNA Test

• Detects high-risk HPV infection
• More sensitive than Pap smear
• Can be done alone or along with Pap smear

Who should be screened?

• All women from age 21
• Even after childbirth
• Even without symptoms
• Even after vaccination

How often?

• Pap smear: every 3 years
• HPV test: every 5 years
• As advised by your doctor

3. Tertiary Prevention – Prevent Progression

If abnormal cells are detected early:

• They can be treated easily
• Simple outpatient procedures can prevent cancer
• Regular follow-up ensures complete safety

Common Myths & Facts

• Myth: I have no symptoms, so I don’t need screening
  Fact: Early cervical cancer has no symptoms
• Myth: Only married women get cervical cancer
  Fact: Any sexually active woman is at risk
• Myth: Vaccine causes infertility
  Fact: HPV vaccine is safe and fertility-friendly
• Myth: Screening is painful
  Fact: It is quick and usually painless

Warning Symptoms (Do Not Ignore)

Seek medical advice if you have:

• Bleeding between periods
• Bleeding after intercourse
• Bleeding after menopause
• Persistent foul-smelling vaginal discharge
• Pelvic pain

These symptoms do not always mean cancer, but they must be checked

Healthy Lifestyle Habits That Help

• Avoid smoking
• Practice safe sex
• Maintain good genital hygiene
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• Keep regular gynecological check-ups

Key Take-Home Messages

• Cervical cancer is preventable
• HPV vaccination + regular screening saves lives
• Early detection means simple treatment and complete cure
• Every woman deserves protection and awareness

We Are Here to Help You

If you have questions about:

• HPV vaccination
• Pap smear or HPV testing
• Abnormal test results
• Follow-up and treatment

Please talk to your doctor. Early action protects your future.