Cervical Cancer
Learn more about one of the most common female cancers in our Cervical cancer section. Find out how you can detect this form of cancer before it even becomes cancer and about the early treatment methods you can do to prevent this cancer from forming and spreading. Cervical cancer does not have to be deadly--but the earlier you detect it the better your chances. Find out more today!
About Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer tends to develop slowly. Changes in the lining of the cervical tissue, possibly due to a cervical injury, or the introduction of the human papillomavirus (HPV), will gradually develop into cancer cells. However, the changes to the cervical cells can easily be detected in your yearly pap smear test. This is why it is so important to get your yearly exam. Although pap smears may be uncomfortable or awkward, they are key to detecting cervical cancer in its infancy--and this is the best time to treat this form of cancer and get on with your life.
The American Cancer Society estimates that 3,700 American women will die of cervical cancer each year. Yet, thanks to the rise in popularity of the pap test and the colposcopy, deaths from cervical cancer have been on the decline since 1955. Cervical cancer death rates continue to drop by around four per cent per year. And if every women had a regular pap smear the deaths from cervical cancer could fall to zero.
HPV And Cervical Cancer
There’s been a lot of talk about Human papillomavirus (HPV) in the media lately. HPV is the virus that causes genital warts, as well as most kinds of cervical cancer. There is an HPV vaccine available, but you might have to ask your doctor about whether it is right for you. To get more facts about the vaccine check out our article on Gardasil. Also, don't forget the importance of the annual pap smear for the early detection of cervical cancer cells.
Cancer Risks And STDs
Remember that when it comes to your reproductive health, you can’t afford to be shy. Learn the symptoms of cervical cancer, be sure to have a yearly pap smear and ask your doctor to test you for HPV. Read up on the connection between HPV and Cancer and Vulvar Cancer and HPV. Learn more about the connection between STDs and cervical cancer. Also, always practice safe sex and wear a condom whenever engaging in sexual activity. This can help to minimize your risk of contracting an STD like HPV.
Treatment For Cervical Cancer
If you’re in treatment for cervical cancer, or if you know someone who is, find out what the odds of Recurrence after Treatment are. Cervical cancer, when detected early enough (so don't forget to get a pap smear!) is extremely treatable. Find out more today about how to protect yourself from this type of female cancer. Also learn more about what kind of treatments you will need if you are in more advanced stages of cervical cancer.
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I would appreciate any responses or comments. Thank you. My daughter in law {42 yo} has finished radiation & chemo for a tumor on her cervix about 10 weeks ago. In a follow up blood test and MRI they discovered a few cancer cells. Next week there will be some more tests to understand her condition. The doctor is “not immediately worried” But there’s the POSSIBILITY of treatment's that “could a hysterectomy {full of partial} and COULD include removal of the vagina.” Depending what the tests reveal. My question is, what is the quality of life be like as a cancer and hysterectomy survivor ? Let me say this, we love her dearly and will be there for her 100%. But I do not know of any one I can ask this question. I searched the web but did not find any direct answers. And maybe my question is to broad, but it is all we know at this time. Thanks for your sensitivity and comments in advance. Blessings, Mitch W.
I believe every woman should know about cervical cancer. If it could happen to me, it could happen to you