Cervical cancer ranks as the fourth most common cancer among women. For those who may be diagnosed, the good news is it continues to be among the most treatable when caught in early stages. The even better news is it is now among the most preventable thanks to the HPV vaccine, known as Gardasil.
Still, experts emphasize awareness, especially moving into a new year with January being Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. While regular screening has resulted in significantly fewer deaths due to cervical cancer over the last few decades, doctors continue to note a large percentage of women who do not schedule regular pap smears. It is unclear why, considering that annual screening is a woman’s best chance to catch cervical cancer when it is most successfully treated.
In its earliest stages, cervical cancer typically shows no symptoms. Doctors encourage annual pelvic exams to look for changes and irregularities of the cervix which may indicate early-stage cancer, emphasizing that regular exams and communication continues to be a woman’s best defense. Possible symptoms that should be addressed with your doctor include:
- Painful urination or urgent need to urinate
- Unexplained swelling in legs
- Persistent lower back or pelvic pain
- Vaginal discharge that is thick, odorous, or tinged with blood
- Unusually heavy or long menstrual periods
- Vaginal bleeding or pain during sexual intercourse
Beginning at age 21 and through age 65, the annual pap test continues to be an effective way to catch early cervical cancer or treat cell changes that could become cancerous. If test results are normal, your doctor may suggest reducing pap tests to every three years.
Today, prevention is possible
For today’s teens and young adults, the Gardasil HPV vaccine can help in the fight against cervical cancer. Human papillomavirus is a sexually transmitted virus that can cause cell changes that may lead to cervical cancer. HPV is the cause of most cervical cancers, and by testing for it, doctors can determine if you may be at a higher risk for developing cervical cancer later in life.
Ideally, however, doctors now advise getting ahead of this risk by treating young people before they become sexually active. The HPV vaccine is recommended for both women and men. When administered before sexual activity and at a young age when the immune response is strongest, the vaccine is highly effective at preventing HPV. Currently, the target age for administering the vaccine is 11 years, but it can be given as early as 9 years of age.
The Gardasil vaccine is available at Stark Women’s Center. Our team encourages you, our patients, to discuss concerns and risks for developing cervical cancer. Our doctors are available to work with you to develop your unique plan for screening and frequency based upon your age, medical history, and cancer risk. Call today for an appointment.