Ways You Can Detect And Prevent Cervical Cancer In Young Women.

Cervical cancer Is A Type Of Cancer That Occurs In The Cells Of The Cervix, The Lower Part Of The Uterus That Connects To The Vagina.

Cervical cancer is caused by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and mainly affects young women.

Transmission of Cervical Cancer

1. Sharing of public toilets

2. Oral sex

3. Sexual Intercourse

Test to Identify Cervical Cancer

Pap smear is a screening test for early detection of cervical cancer. Pap smear involves collecting cells from your cervix, the lower narrow end of your uterus that’s at the top of your vagina.

Detecting cervical cancer early with a Pap smear gives you a greater chance at a cure. A Pap smear can also detect changes in your cervical cells that suggest cancer may develop in the future.

Detecting these abnormal cells early with a Pap smear is your first step in desisting the possible development of cervical cancer.

Causes of Cervical Cancer

1. Prolonged infection with human papilloma virus (HPV).

2. Genetic mutation.

3. Sexually transmitted diseases.

4. The occurrence of other types of cancer.

Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

1. Pain during sexual intercourse.

2. Vaginal bleeding.

3. Pelvic pain.

4. Vaginal discharge along with a foul smell.

Prevention Measures

Vaccination is a strong prevention from cervical cancer.

This vaccine not only protects against cervical, vulvar and vaginal cancer but also against genital warts.

Every woman after 21 years of age should undergo Pap Smear testing yearly to detect any early changes in cervix.

Cervical cancer vaccination is against HPV 6, 11, 16, 18 (deadly strains causing dysplastic and precancerous lesions).

How to Administer Vaccination

– Starting age for vaccination is 9 -12 years and catch up is given in adolescent girls and young women between 13 and 26 years.

– It is best given before sexual exposure.

– The earlier the vaccination is given, the better it is.

– Vaccination schedule is 0, 2, 6 months i.e. 3 doses given over a period of 6 months. It is administered intramuscularly in deltoid region.

Note; THIS VACCINE SHOULD NOT BE GIVEN DURING PREGNANCY.