January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

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Cervical cancer is a preventable disease, yet 1 in 142 women or individuals with a cervix will be diagnosed in their lifetime. 

Nearly all cases (98.8%) are preventable.  January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, an opportune time to learn about cervical cancer and the simple steps you can take to lower your risk.

 

Attend your cervical screening appointment when invited

All women and individuals with a cervix aged 25 to 64 will receive an invitation by letter for cervical screening (smear test) to check the health of their cervix. Cervical screening is not a test for cancer but a preventive measure to help stop cancer from developing.

  • Ages 25 - 49: Screenings are recommended every 3 years.
  • Ages 50 - 64: Screenings are recommended every 5 years.
  • The screening appointment typically takes around 10 minutes. 

During the screening, a small sample of cells is taken from your cervix and tested for certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). If these types of cells are found, they can be treated before they have the chance to turn into cervical cancer.

 

Get the HPV vaccine if eligible

All children aged 12 to 13 are offered the HPV vaccine, which helps protect against cancers caused by HPV.

Even if you previously had the HPV vaccine, it’s still important to attend your screenings, as the vaccine doesn’t protect against all types of HPV.

Others may be eligible for the HPV vaccine. Learn more about the HPV vaccine and whether you are high risk.

 

Know the symptoms of cervical cancer and seeking medical advice if experiencing any

Cervical cancer often doesn’t show any signs in the early stages, which is why regular cervical screenings are so important. They can identify issues before you notice any symptoms.

It’s important to know what is normal for your body. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical advice:

  • Unusual bleeding
  • Pain during sex
  • Unusual discharge

For more information on symptoms, visit Macmillan Cancer Support.

Certain groups are at a higher risk of developing cervical cancer. If you’ve had cervical cancer or abnormal cervical cells before, your risk is higher. Additionally, conditions such as HIV/AIDS or the use of immunosuppressive medications can weaken your immune system, making it harder to fight off infections like HPV.

For more information on risk factors, visit the NHS website.

 

Know where to find support

If you feel anxious about attending cervical screening or would like to be more informed about the process, you can find more information and support here:

 

Book an appointment

Contact us to book your cervical screening appointment.

Don’t ignore your invitation - book your appointment as soon as you can. If you missed your last screening, make sure to book an appointment now. Regular screening is an important step in preventing cervical cancer.

Encourage friends and family to attend their screenings as well.

Published: Jan 6, 2025