It's Cervical Health Awareness Month!

Let’s talk cervical cancer.

January is Cervical Health Awareness Month. A cervical cancer screening is used to find changes in the cells of the cervix that could lead to cancer. A typical screening includes a Pap test and, for some women, testing for human papillomavirus (HPV). Cervical cancer is the fourth most frequent cancer in women with an estimated 570,000 new cases in 2018, representing 6.6% of all female cancers. As with most cancers, you have a better chance of surviving the earlier it is detected.

How often should you get tested for cervical cancer?

Women aged 21–29 years should have a Pap test alone every three years. HPV testing is not usually recommended. Women aged 30–65 years should have a Pap test and an HPV test (called ‘co-testing’) every five years. For women aged 30-65, it also is acceptable to have a Pap test alone every three years.

Regular screening gives patients and OB/GYNs time to find cervical cell changes and discuss possible treatment before the cell changes to become cancer.

What does it mean if I have an abnormal cervical cancer screening test result?

Many women have abnormal cervical cancer screening results. An abnormal result does not mean that you have cancer. Cervical cell changes often go back to normal on their own without any needed treatment. If they do not, it often takes several years for even high-grade changes to become cancer.

If you have an abnormal screening test result, additional testing is needed to find out whether high-grade changes or cancer are actually present. Sometimes, only repeat testing is needed. In other cases, colposcopy and cervical biopsy may be recommended to find out how severe your case is. If the results of follow-up tests indicate high-grade changes, you may need treatment to remove the abnormal cells. You will need follow-up testing after treatment and will need to get regular cervical cancer screening after the follow-up is complete.

Are there any women who are the exception to routine cervical cancer screening guidelines?

Women who have a history of cervical cancer, are infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), have a weakened immune system, or who were exposed to diethylstilbestrol (DES) before birth may require more frequent screenings than what is typically recommended. It is, of course, recommended to discuss any distinguishing factors with your OB/GYN to determine your best screening routine.

Having an HPV vaccination does not change screening recommendations. Women who have been vaccinated against HPV still need to follow the screening recommendations for their age group.

If you have additional questions about cervical health or regular screenings, be sure to ask your doctor at your next appointment.