Cervical Health Awareness Month

January is cervical health awareness month. Cervical health awareness month was renamed; as it was known prior as cervical cancer awareness month. Because so many Women were diagnosed with non-cancer cervical issues, the name was updated.

Cervical Health

In the first place, there are many different type of issues that can affect the cervix. The National Cervical Cancer Coalition and American Social Health Association choose January to encourage all Women to get screening tests for cervical cancer.

Additionally, each Women can receive the human papillomavirus (HPV) if eligible. Although technology has come a long way in helping Women, it is important to help prevent this disease. The emergence of HPV DNA tests are standard for Women 30 and older. Of course challenges have risen. Furthermore, we need more needles. Because many living in poverty are likely to die from cervical issues. Approximately 80% of cervical cancer happens in other parts of the world. India is one of the largest countries dealing with large cases of this.

Symptoms

Since symptoms vary depending on the condition, it is important to have regular medical check-ups. Also one of the scariest things is when there are no symptoms present. Many early stages go undetected. Equally important is to pay attention if you have any of these symptoms.

Cervical cancer develops slowly. There are ways to help prevent this from spreading by a Pap smear.

Bleeding in the vagina
Severe pain in your lower belly or pelvis
Bleeding in between menstrual periods, after sex, or after menopause
Severe pain during sexual intercourse
Vaginal discharge

Changes

To summarize, cervical cancer screening used to be simple. When Women went to their Gynecologist, they would have an annual Pap smear. But now, guidelines have changed. Also, screening happens every few years rather than annually.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is imperative that we continue our effort to promote access to health care. Everyone needs to be aware of how to prevent this disease. Let’s help with this disease. Talk to your health care provider to learn about screening tests.

No one needs to die from this disease. We have the tools available to help prevent this disease. Let’s help make a difference. To repeat, lets help eradicate this disease.