Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers in women, commonly affecting those age 30 and over. The cancer is primarily caused by HPV, human papillomavirus, infection. HPV is a virus spread by sexual activity. However, the Centers for Disease Control state that cervical cancer is one of the easiest cancers to prevent with proper screening tests and follow up. Each year 10,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and nearly 4,000 women die of the disease, according to the Mayo Clinic. Routine screening is highly recommended for women who are sexually active or over the age of 21. Woman over the age of 65 who have had three normal Pap smear results and no abnormal results may discuss with their doctor if there is a need to continue screening.
Step 1
Visit your gynecologist and discuss your concern about cervical cancer and your interest in getting screened. Ask about getting a Pap smear as well as an HPV test. Be prepared to answer questions about how many sex partners you have had as well as sexual activity.
Step 2
Prepare for a Pap smear. Understand that you will be asked to undress, commonly from the waist down. Wear a robe or garment provided by the doctor's office for comfort and cover your body prior to the exam. Place your feet in the stirrups and slide your buttocks to the edge of the exam table. Remember to not have a Pap smear during your period; reschedule your appointment for a later date.
Step 3
Relax as the doctor inserts a speculum to widen the vagina; the doctor will then lightly rub against the cervix and surrounding tissue with a brush. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for examination for abnormal cells on the cervix, which may lead to cancer growth.
Step 4
Request the Pap smear sample to be tested for HPV; the same sample can be used.
Understand that not all abnormal cells are signs of cervical cancer. Ask your doctor when the results will be available, and how you will be notified of them. Some doctors may call you on the phone, while others may mail you a letter. Follow up with your doctor with the recommended treatment if test results are abnormal.
