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How Can Women Prevent Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide, but one of the most preventable. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 94% of cervical cancer deaths in 2022 occurred in low and middle-income countries. Yet, the tools to prevent it are not far out of reach.
So, how can women not die from cervical cancer? 
 
Understanding the Root Cause: HPV and Cervical Cancer
Almost all cases of cervical cancer are linked to persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types, a common sexually transmitted infection. In most women, HPV clears naturally within 1–2 years. But in some, the infection lingers and causes changes in the cervical cells, which may turn cancerous over time.
This slow progression means cervical cancer can often be prevented or caught very early if women go to the doctor once they notice any symptoms.
 
HPV Vaccination
The HPV vaccine protects against the most dangerous virus types (HPV 16 and 18) responsible for about 70% of cervical cancers.
The best time to get the vaccination dose is before sexual activity begins, around ages 9–14 or before 18. A single HPV vaccine dose is effective. In October 2023, Nigeria introduced the HPV vaccine into its national immunization schedule, aiming to reach over 7.7 million girls in its first rollout.
 
How to Screen and Detect Precancerous Changes Early
Even with HPV vaccination, cervical screening is important. It detects precancerous lesions and changes that can be treated before they become cancer.
Screening Options:
Screening Guidelines:
  • Begin at age 25–30.
  • Pap smear every 3 years, or
  • HPV test every 5 years, or
  • Co-testing every 5 years.
  • Women should be screened at least twice in their lifetime.
How Do I Recognize Cervical Cancer Signs Early?
Cervical cancer often shows no symptoms until later stages. But if you notice unusual vaginal bleeding (after sex, between periods, or after menopause), foul-smelling or watery discharge, and pelvic pain or pain during sex. It’s crucial to see a doctor immediately.
 
Lifestyle Habits To Prevent Cervical Cancer
While vaccination and screening are most important, lifestyle also plays a role in lowering risk:
  • Quit smoking: Women who smoke are twice as likely to develop cervical cancer.
  • Safe sex practices: Condoms reduce HPV transmission risk, and limiting multiple partners can lower exposure to any kind of infection. 
  • Eat the right meals: Eating the right meals will build up your body to fight off infection and boost your immune system.
  • Regular checkups: Annual visits to a gynecologist can also help catch issues early. If you have any concerns, you can connect to a gynaecologist on the Cyclekits App. Get subscribed today.
Tackling Myths and Barriers
Many women avoid vaccination or screening due to myths like:
  • “The HPV vaccine causes infertility.” No scientific evidence supports this. In fact, this vaccine prevents infections that may affect fertility.
  • “Pap smears are painful.” While uncomfortable, most women describe it as mild pressure lasting just a few seconds.
  • “Only promiscuous women get cervical cancer.” False. HPV is so common that even women with one partner are at risk.
Note: Breaking these myths through education, community talks, and mother-daughter campaigns is important.
 
Conclusion
Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers we can almost completely prevent. With regular screening, awareness of symptoms, and healthy habits, every woman has a high chance of surviving this type of cancer.
Have you ever done a Pap smear, HPV test, or taken your daughter for the HPV vaccine? 
 
 
 
 
Researched by Mercy Adeniyi. 
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