Prevention Of Cervical Cancer

You can reduce your risk of cervical cancer if:

Use a condom every time you have sex, reduce the risk of HPV

Delay first intercourse

Having fewer sexual partners

Avoid smoking

Get vaccinated against HPV

Vaccination against HPV

Vaccines can protect against the most dangerous types of HPV - the virus that plays a role in causing most cervical cancers. Vaccination is available for girls aged 9-12, as well as girls and women aged 13-26, if you have not already received the vaccine. The vaccine is most effective if given before girls become sexually active.

Despite hopes that the vaccine prevents cervical cancer more, you can not prevent infection with every virus that causes cervical cancer. Routine Pap tests for cervical cancer remain high.

The routine Pap tests

Routine Pap tests can detect cancer in the conditions of the cervix so that they can follow to prevent or treat cervical cancer. Work with your doctor to better determine the Pap test schedule. Most organizations suggest women start a routine Pap test at age 21 and are tested every 1-3 years.

If you are at high risk of cervical cancer, Pap tests will be needed more often. If you have had a hysterectomy, talk with your doctor whether to continue the Pap test. If the hysterectomy was performed for a noncancerous condition such as fibroids, may be able to end the routine Pap tests, but not to pelvic exams. If the hysterectomy was carried out in a precancerous or cancerous condition, your vaginal canal still needs to be checked for abnormal changes.