Cervical cancer has emerged as the fourth most common cause of cancer related deaths in women globally. Cervical screening, also known as pap test, is a crucial preventive healthcare procedure. With early detection through this test, cervical cancer is completely treatable.
When to Screen?
Women aged between 25-64 years should have a regular cervical screening. For women aged 25-49 years, a cervical screening should be done every three years and for women aged 50-64 years, every five years.
If you are experiencing signs of cervical cancer, including abnormal bleeding or abdominal pain and discomfort, it is recommended that you go through the screening. The ideal time to have your smear test is one week after your last period.
How can screening help?
Screening won’t eliminate the chances of cervical cancer but can help in the following ways:
- Prevention: Screening can identify precancerous cells. Removing or treating abnormal cells can significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer.
- Improved Treatment: If cervical cancer is detected at an early age chance of successful treatment and survival significantly increase.
- Reduced Mortality Rate: An early detection of cancer after cervical screening is instrumental in reducing fatalities associated with cervical cancer.
Treatment
It might come as a shock if your cervical screening has shown the presence of some abnormal cells. But it is important to remember that this does not mean that you have cancer. Remember, cervical cancer can be eliminated by early screening and treatment. Cervical cancer is caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) for which these is a vaccine available.
It is best to consult a gynecologist who will guide you in the best way possible if you have any doubts or questions regarding the procedure. Dr. Jyoti Rajesh associated with Dr. Sunny Medical Centre is one of the leading gynecologists in Bengaluru who strives to address various gynecological concerns and provide comprehensive pregnancy care. She has a keen focus in preventive healthcare and offers services such as cervical cancer screening, emphasizing the importance of early detection and intervention.
She embarked on a journey of medical excellence after completing her MBBS from JNMC Belgaum in 1994. She later pursued DGO from BMC Bangalore and driven by a desire to provide the highest quality care to her patients, Dr. Jyoti completed DNB training from St. John’s Hospital Bangalore in 2001. Her commitment to provide compassionate care, combined with her extensive experience, make her one of the most sought after gynae in Bengaluru. With a holistic healthcare approach, she makes her patients feel comfortable to voice all their concerns.