Pap smears are not used to diagnose cervical cancer, but to detect abnormal cells or pre-cancerous changes in the cervix which may have the potential to become cancerous. A Pap smear involves an insertion of a speculum into the vagina to widen it. A sample of cells is taken from the cervix and sent to a laboratory for examination. Even if you have been vaccinated against cervical cancer, regular Pap smears remain an important part of a healthy lifestyle and personal health care.
To obtain accurate results, schedule your Pap tests according to these guidelines: *When you are not menstruating (between 10 and 20 days after the first day of the last menstrual period).
*Avoid using vaginal medicines, creams, or jellies (unless directed by a doctor) as these substances may wash away or hide abnormal cells.
*It’s advisable not to have sexual intercourse about 1 or 2 days before the test as it could cause unclear results.
*It is the 2nd most common cancer affecting women
*Each year, about 500,000 women worldwide are diagnosed with cervical cancer and more than 270,000 die from it
*Cervical cancer is caused by a common virus known as human papillomavirus (HPV). *Women who smoke are 2 times more at risk than non-smokers
*Sexually transmitted infections like Chlamydia, Herpes may cause cervical cancer
It is now possible to help prevent infection against cervical cancer through vaccination.
Cervical cancer vaccination works in the same way as any other vaccination you have had, such as tetanus or hepatitis B vaccination. When you are vaccinated, your body creates specific defenses against the virus, so that if you come into contact with the virus, you can be protected against infection.
What are the HPV symptoms?
Most HPV infections of the cervix cause no symptoms. But you may have symptoms if those cell changes grow into cervic
*Bleeding when something comes in contact with your cervix, such as during sex or when you put in a diaphragm.
*Pain during sex.
*Vaginal discharge that is tinged with blood.
http://www.healthtips2u.com/best-cervical-cancer-prevention/
http://www.healthtips2u.com/best-cervical-cancer-prevention/
