Steph McGovern has a smear test on Steph's Packed Lunch
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Dr Jay Chatterjee warned that a virus can lead to cancerous cells in the cervix, which is the opening between the vagina and the womb – and part of the reproductive system. “Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by an infection from certain strains of human papillomaviruses (HPV),” said Dr Chatterjee. “You can catch HPV from skin-to-skin contact in the genital region and through sexual intercourse.
“It is common and highly transmittable but there are some groups who are more likely, or at risk, of catching HPV.”
Those at higher risk of catching HPV include those who are sexually active, people who have multiple sexual partners, and people who do not use barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms or diaphragms.
Other groups more likely to catch HPV include people who have an immunosuppressed health condition and smokers.
Dr Chatterjee elaborated: “HPV stands for human papillomavirus and is the name of a common group of viruses.
“They do not cause any problems in most people, but some strains can cause genital warts or cervical cancer.”
Cervical cancer is a treatable disease, especially in the earliest of stages.
It’s for this reason Dr Chatterjee highlights the early symptoms of cervical cancer, such as:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding during or after sex, between periods or after the menopause
- Having inexplicably heavier or irregular periods than usual
- Changes to vaginal discharge
- Pain during sex
- Pain in your lower back, in the pelvic and hip area, or in your lower abdomen.
“Usually, these symptoms can be due to other less serious conditions such as PCOS, endometriosis, or fibroids,” said Dr Chatterjee.
“However, it’s important to visit your GP right away if you do experience these symptoms so that you can have the necessary tests to rule out any sinister pathology.”
The gynae-oncologist reassured that cervical cancer “can be prevented by attending cervical screening appointments”.
Commonly known as smear tests, the cervical screening can detect HPV and abnormal cells.
“This can then be treated early on usually in the precancerous stage, to prevent the development of cervical cancer,” Dr Chatterjee explained.
“Therefore, cervical cancer screenings are so vital to attend for those eligible,” he continued.
“Women and people who have a cervix are called up for their first cervical screening just before they reach the age of 25.
“It is then offered every three years. Alongside this, young teenagers are offered the HPV vaccine, which helps protect against cancers caused by the virus.”
The NHS noted that women will continue to be invited for a smear test up till the age of 64.
If you believe you are due a smear test and have not yet received an invitation by the post, you should contact your GP surgery.
The national health service added: “Try not to put off cervical screening. It’s one of the best ways to protect yourself from cervical cancer.”
Results of your smear test will usually be communicated to you via your doctor or through a letter.
Mr Jay Chatterjee is a consultant gynae-oncologist at The Lister Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare UK.
If you believe you are due a smear test and have not yet received an invitation by the post, you should contact your GP surgery.
The national health service added: “Try not to put off cervical screening. It’s one of the best ways to protect yourself from cervical cancer.”
Results of your smear test will usually be communicated to you via your doctor or through a letter.
Mr Jay Chatterjee is a consultant gynae-oncologist at The Lister Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare UK.
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