Cervical Cancer Screening

Unfortunately, and although it’s widely known and accessible, many women delay or avoid screening altogether because they feel nervous, unsure, or just too busy doing things that feel important in the moment. It’s a measure for ourselves and our health that can easily be put off and sent to the back burner of priorities – but the reality is though, that taking a few minutes for yourself today can prevent serious health concerns from arising tomorrow.

You find the time for work. For family. For everyone else. Now, find the time for you.

What exactly is the cervix?

Before we go into understanding what cervical cancer is and why measures should be taken in order to prevent it, we need to first understand what the cervix is and what it does. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It plays an important role in reproductive health by allowing menstrual flow, opening during childbirth, and helping protect the uterus from infection.

How cervical cancer develops

Cervical cancer develops when abnormal cells begin to grow on the surface of the cervix. Now, it’s important to note that bbnormal cervical cells are common and usually indicate early changes, not cancer itself. In many cases, these changes resolve on their own or remain mild. Screening helps identify these changes early so they can be monitored or treated before cancer develops.

Only a small number of abnormal cell changes progress to cervical cancer, and this usually happens slowly over several years. This is why regular screening is so effective. It allows clinicians to act early, long before cancer becomes a concern.

In most cases, these changes are caused by long-term infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus, commonly known as HPV (the Human Papillomavirus). HPV is very common and often causes no symptoms. This is why screening plays such a critical role in protecting long-term health.

Why screening matters

Early cervical cell changes usually cause no pain or visible symptoms. Without screening, these changes can progress silently over time.

Screening allows us to:

• Detect abnormal cells early
• Treat changes before cancer develops
• Reduce the need for complex treatment later
• Offer peace of mind through clarity and early action

As mentioned earlier, cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when screening is done regularly.

Symptoms to look out for

Like many forms of cancer, early stages of cervical cancer often have no symptoms.

If symptoms do appear, they most commonly are:

• Unusual vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between periods, or after menopause
• Persistent or unusual vaginal discharge
• Pelvic pain or discomfort during intercourse

These symptoms can have many causes. It’s extremely important you speak to an experienced clinician early to allow for timely evaluation and reassurance.

What you need to know about Cervical Screening Tests

The Pap Smear

A Pap smear is a quick internal examination where a small sample of cervical cells is gently collected and sent for laboratory analysis. It identifies cell changes before symptoms appear and before cancer develops.

HPV Test

The HPV test detects high-risk strains of the virus linked to cervical cancer. It is often performed alongside a Pap smear, depending on both your age and clinical guidance.

Both tests take only a few minutes and are part of a routine clinic visit.

Who should be screened and when

• Screening usually begins at age 21
• Women aged 30 to 65 may choose:
  • A Pap test every three years
  • An HPV test every five years
  • Combined Pap and HPV testing every five years
• Screening after age 65 depends on medical history and previous results

Your clinician will recommend the most appropriate schedule based on your individual health profile.

What to expect during your appointment

• You’ll be positioned comfortably on the examination table
• A small speculum is gently inserted to allow clear visualization of the cervix
• A soft brush collects a small cell sample
• The entire process takes only a few minutes

Although it may not be the most eagerly anticipated experience, it is undoubtedly one of the most important ones, and your comfort and privacy are always prioritized. If you feel nervous or uncomfortable at any point, your clinician will guide and reassure you throughout.

Understanding your results

• Normal
  No abnormal cells detected. Your next routine screening will be scheduled.
• Unclear
  The sample needs repeating for clarity.
• Abnormal Cell
  changes are present. Most abnormalities are not cancer and can be monitored or treated early.

An abnormal result means we are being proactive and protective of your health.

Reducing your risk

Alongside regular screening, you can lower your risk by:

• Receiving the HPV vaccination when appropriate
• Practicing safer sexual health
• Avoiding smoking, which is linked to higher cervical cancer risk