January is Cervical Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the fourth-most common type of cancer affecting women. Cervical cancer is a malignant growth that develops in your cervix, which is the lower part of your uterus.
It’s important to realize, however, that cervical cancer is a largely preventable disease, and prevention starts with education.
The most common cause of cervical cancer is high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). Certain strains of this sexually transmitted disease (STD) can significantly increase your risk of cervical cancer. Fortunately, great strides have been made in both prevention and early detection in recent decades.
Our team at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta offers comprehensive STD testing and HPV treatment in Marietta and Woodstock, Georgia, and here’s what you need to know about the links between HPV and cervical cancer.
HPV is a group of over 100 related viruses, many that are transmitted through sexual contact. The majority of HPV infections are harmless and clear up on their own. In fact, it’s possible to have HPV and never know it.
However, certain strains, known as high-risk HPV types, can persist and eventually develop into cervical cancer. High-risk types, including HPV 16 and 18, can infect cells in your cervix and cause abnormal changes.
While most of these changes aren’t cancerous, some can progress to precancerous lesions called cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). And if it’s left untreated, CIN can develop into invasive cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer doesn’t usually have early warning signs. However, as it progresses, you may experience symptoms like pelvic pain, unusual vaginal discharge, bleeding between periods, or bleeding after menopause.
Cervical cancer poses a serious health risk, but it’s highly preventable and treatable when it’s detected early. In its early stages, cervical cancer often has no symptoms. That means regular Pap smears and HPV tests are essential.
Pap smears capture a small amount of cervical cells, which are tested for abnormalities. These screenings can identify abnormal cells in your cervix, so you can get prompt treatment and prevent cancer from developing.
If you’re sexually active, practicing safe sex also reduces your risk of getting HPV. Using condoms can reduce the risk of HPV transmission, but keep in mind that it’s not 100% effective.
The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing infections from the high-risk HPV types that cause most cervical cancers. It's recommended for both boys and girls aged 11-12, but it can be administered to those ranging from 9 to 26 years old.
This year, let Cervical Health Awareness Month serve as a reminder to prioritize your own health. If you're sexually active, talk to our team about the HPV vaccine or scheduling your next Pap smear. Call us at 770-422-8700 to get started.
