Ladies, Here’s How to Take Charge of Your Health Against Cervical Cancer!

14 Oct Ladies, Here’s How to Take Charge of Your Health Against Cervical Cancer!

Cervical cancer is a serious health concern especially in Nigeria and many parts of Africa despite being highly preventable and curable with early detection. This is why taking charge of your health through prevention is key to staying healthy!

Here’s all you need to know.

Cervical Cancer: What Is It?

Cervical cancer is a cancer that starts in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus connecting it to the vagina. Many women with early-stage cervical cancer might not experience any symptoms. However, if symptoms do appear, they can be confused with other conditions.

Common Symptoms:

1. Unusual vaginal bleeding, like bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause.

2. Vaginal discharge with a different smell or appearance than usual.

3. Increased urination or pain while urinating.

4. Pelvic pain.

Early Detection A Massive Blow For Cervical Cancer

Since early symptoms are often subtle, regular cervical screening and prevention is crucial. This painless procedure, also known as a Pap smear, checks for abnormal changes in the cells of your cervix. This is not a test for cancer itself, but rather a way to identify transforming (precancerous) cells that can be treated before they turn cancerous.

What’s the HPV Connection?

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the leading cause of cervical cancer. It’s a common sexually transmitted infection that, in most cases, your body naturally clears. However, certain types of HPV can trigger these transformative yet abnormal cell changes in the cervix if left untreated.

Reducing Your Risk

1. Getting the HPV Vaccine is most effective when given before someone becomes sexually active. It protects against specific strains of HPV that can lead to cervical cancer. Both girls and boys can benefit from vaccination. In Nigeria, the Federal Government has commenced a roll out of this vaccine to all girls between the ages of 9-14 years, for free.

2. Limiting sexual partners helps to lower your risk of contracting HPV.

3. Practicing safe sex during vaginal, oral, and anal sex can help reduce HPV transmission.

4. Pap Smears and HPV Screenings have recommended schedules which can vary depending on your age and risk factors. Discuss this with your doctor.

Is It Only the HPV Virus I Should Be Worried About?

While HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer, other factors can increase your risk of cervical cancer:

• Smoking
• HIV infection
• Chlamydia infection
• Obesity
• Family history of cervical cancer
• Diet low in fruits and vegetables

Can I Beat Cervical Cancer?

Yes! Cervical Cancer is beatable thanks to early detection! Dear Ladies, you can significantly reduce your chances of developing cervical cancer by simply being proactive. Schedule regular screenings with your doctor, discuss vaccination options, and practice safe sex.