Cervical Cancer Screening October 2011

What do you know about cervical cancer screening?

Where is the cervix?

What is a Pap test? Can find abnormal changes on the cervix. Treating early changes can prevent cancer of the cervix. The Pap test is free.

What causes abnormal changes on the cervix? HPV (Human Papillomavirus) HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) You can pass this virus without knowing it to men or women

HPV HPV can cause abnormal changes on a woman’s cervix Sometimes abnormal changes can become cancerous. A Pap test can find these abnormal changes before they turn into cancer.

Pap test…

Do I need a Pap test? All women who have ever been sexually active (sexual intercourse and intimate touching), regardless of sexual orientation, should have regular Pap tests.

When should I have a Pap test? Pap testing should begin 3 years after first sexual activity Most women need a Pap test every two years.

What should I do before a Pap test? Schedule your Pap test – after your period has stopped completely. – Two weeks after treatment for any cervical or vaginal infection. Do not use tampons, douches, creams and/or foams for 48 hours before your Pap test.

What should I do before a Pap test? Try not to have sexual intercourse for 24 hours before the test. If you need a repeat Pap test, you should wait at least 3 months in order to allow cells on the cervix to grow back.

What is the HPV vaccine? The HPV vaccines protect against certain types of HPV which cause cervical cancer. The vaccines do not treat existing HPV infections. If you receive the vaccine, you still need regular Pap tests.

Where can I go for a Pap test? Ask your doctor or nurse Contact your local health centre Visit our website under “Where can I go for a Pap test? – TellEveryWoman.ca

Remember… Most cervical cancers can be prevented if women have regular Pap tests with follow-up for abnormal changes.

Any questions?