Cervical cancer can be pretty deadly and lethal, and instead of doing the rounds of radiation, laser therapy and chemotherapy later on when it is too late, it is better to adopt a few preventive measures to stay on the safe side from beforehand. After all, a stitch in time prevents nine and it is better to be safe than sorry.
If the symptoms and signs of cervical cancer can be detected when the cancer is in its early stage, it will increase the chances of longevity. Every 3 years, once you cross the age of 30 years, you should appear for regular pap smear tests which can detect the growth of abnormal cancerous cells in the cervix or abnormalities in that region. You can also go in for HPV tests.
There are vaccines available for cervical cancer and others are in the pipeline. You can get yourself vaccinated against HPV before you start your sexual activity, or when you are a young woman or under 27 years of age. Gardasil can be administered to young girls who are of 9 years of age.
- It is also necessary to go in for regular health check ups at least once a year.If you experience any of the signs or symptoms of cervical cancer, immediately seek medical assistance, without delay or hesitation. The earlier it is detected, more are your options for treatment.
- Since STDs are a leading risk factor for contracting cervical cancer, it is better to protect yourself through contraception like condoms. If your partner refuses to wear one, insist strongly and urge him to take protection. Condoms can not only prevent cervical cancer, they can also guard against HIV and AIDS.
- Quit smoking. It will prevent many diseases, not only cervical cancer.
- Since having multiple sexual partners can increase your chances of contracting cervical cancer, it is better to practice monogamy and stick to one partner only. Sometimes abstinence from a colorful life can actually add more color to a long happy life whereas momentary thrill can lead to untold misery and misfortune.
- It is also a good idea to abstain from paid sex or sex with unknown partners or one night stands.
- An abnormal Pap smear has to be followed up by colposcopies or regular Pap smears. This will be decided by your physician. Cervical dysplasia, if suffered from earlier, can strike again and transform into cervical cancer if it is not detected.
Above cervical cancer prevention steps are just the basic, it is better to see the doctor for more detail informations.