Stop cervical cancer before it starts

What is cervical cancer? 

Cervical cancer occurs in the cells of the cervix—the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, play a role in causing most cervical cancer. And all women are at risk for this type of cancer.

What can you do to protect yourself?

Cervical cancer is not just a treatable disease—it’s preventable. It can develop relatively slowly over time, making early detection of cervical pre-cancers the best way to treat it.

The HPV vaccine is for girls and boys, and adults. Talk to your provider and your children’s provider about an HPV vaccine to help minimize the risk of cervical cancer.

• Children should receive two shots of HPV vaccine at least 6 months apart at ages 11 or 12 (can start as early as age 9), finishing the two-shot series before their 13th birthday.
• Teens and young adults who did not start the HPV vaccine series before they turned 15 will need three shots within six months for best protection.
• Teens, young adults, and women through age 26 who have not received the HPV shots should ask their doctor or nurse about getting them now.
• Adults age 27–45 should talk with their doctor about the HPV vaccine and if it’s necessary for them.

The HPV vaccine does not replace the need for regular Pap tests and pelvic exams.

If you're an adult woman, schedule a yearly exam with your primary care provider, OB/GYN, or other health professional.

• Women who are age 21-29 should have a Pap test every three years.
• Women age 30-65 should have a co-test (a Pap and an HPV test together) every five years or a Pap test alone every three years. (You may need to screen more often if you have a history of abnormal test results.)

How to prepare for your pap or HPV test

Schedule your test when you will not be having your period. In the two days before your test, you should not:

• Douche (rinse the vagina with water or another fluid).
• Use a tampon.
• Have sex.
• Use a birth control foam, cream, or jelly.
• Use a medicine or cream in your vagina.

Test results

It can take up to three weeks for test results. If results suggest something is not normal, your doctor will contact you and let you know if you will need treatment. In most cases, treatment prevents cervical cancer from developing. However, there are many reasons why test results might not be normal. Usually, it does not mean you have cancer. It is important to follow up with your doctor right away to learn more.

If your test results are normal, your chance of getting cervical cancer in the next few years is very low. Your doctor may tell you that you can wait several years for your next cervical cancer screening test. But you should still go to the doctor regularly for a checkup.

For Capital Blue Cross members, screenings and vaccines may be covered as part of your preventive care.

So, call your preferred health professional today and start getting on a routine schedule. Start getting screened to stop cervical cancer in its tracks.