Cervical Cancer Awareness Month: Know Symptoms and Preventive Methods
New Delhi, January 12, 2025: Tata 1mg is observing Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Cervical Cancer Awareness Month is observed in January to raise awareness about Cervical Cancer and the human papillomavirus (HPV) that causes it.
As per WHO, Cervical Cancer Awareness Month aims to highlight the importance of increasing access to HPV vaccines, regular screening, and state-of-the-art treatment for cervical cancer in its early stages.
Know the symptoms of cervical cancer
See a doctor straight away if you experience:
Irregular bleeding between periods, after the menopause or after sexual intercourse
Increased or foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Persistent pain in the back, legs or pelvis
Weight loss, fatigue and loss of appetite
Vaginal discomfort
Swelling of legs.
Cervical cancer in its early stages may present no symptoms. This is why regular cervical cancer screening is important, even if vaccinated against HPV.
Here are some things to know about cervical cancer:
Early detection
Cervical cancer is highly treatable if detected early. A Pap smear is a simple, painless, and noninvasive test that can help detect cervical cancer early.
HPV vaccination
The HPV vaccine is given in two doses, and it's recommended that girls get the vaccine between the ages of 9 and 14.
Screening
Cervical cancer screening usually begins at age 30 and is repeated periodically.
HPV exposure
HPV can spread through skin-to-skin contact with an infected part of the body, even without sex. Limiting the number of sexual partners and avoiding people who have had many sexual partners can help reduce the risk of exposure to HPV.