January is Cervical Health Awareness Month! The theme for the 2025 Cervical Health Awareness Month is “Learn. Prevent. Screen.”
How Do I Know My Cervical Health?
The cervix is a donut-shaped organ that separates the vagina and the uterus.
The small hole in the center only allows period blood and semen to pass through it. This helps it protect the uterus from external objects, like tampons. Because the cervix is hard to see, it is important we know how to take care of it.
Did you know?
The cervix opening can get as big as 10cm (about 3.94 in) during childbirth, allowing a baby to pass through, and then returns to its original size after delivery.
Learn: What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is a disease where changes in DNA cause cells in the cervix to quickly multiply and can create a mass – known as a tumor. Cervical cancer is treatable if it is caught early before it spreads to other organs.
Symptoms:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding, such as after sex and between periods.
- Menstrual bleeding that is heavier and lasts longer than usual.
- Watery, bloody discharge that may be heavy and have a foul odor.
- Pelvic pain or pain during sex.
The most common cause of cervical cancer is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) known as the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
In fact, HPV is linked to ninety-nine percent of all cervical cancers. However, not all HPV is cancerous, and the immune system can get rid of HPV depending on the strain.
Prevent: Meet the HPV Vaccine
There is a preventative vaccine for HPV called Gardasil, which makes you less likely to develop cervical cancer. The vaccine is recommended even if you do not have a cervix to stop the spread of HPV.
Can I get the HPV vaccine? Find out below:
|
Age |
Recommended? |
Doses |
|
9 – 11 |
Talk to your provider |
2 (6 to 12 months apart) |
|
11 – 15 |
Yes |
2 (6 to 12 months apart) |
|
15 – 26 |
Yes |
3 (0, 1–2 and 6 months) |
|
27 – 45 |
Talk to your provider |
3 (0, 1-2 and 6 months) |
If you are under the age of 18 parental or guardian consent is required for any vaccines, including Gardasil.
Screen: Three Claps for the Pap
A Pap smear/Pap test is a procedure that involves collecting cells from the cervix with a swab for testing. A Pap test is often used to look for cervical cancer. Pap tests can find cervical cancer early, when it is more likely to be cured.
Additionally, a Pap test also looks for cells that could become cancer in the future. If the Pap test finds precancerous cells, there are treatments that can prevent the transition to cancer.
If you want to take care of your cervix this Cervical Health Awareness Month and get an HPV vaccine or Pap smear, find a healthcare provider near you!
