Cervical cancer is another prevalent disease that women must regularly screen for. To detect cervical cancer, you will need to have a regular Pap smear. Cervical cancer often shows no signs or symptoms other than the results of the Pap smear. Early detection greatly increases your odds of successful treatment.

Reduce Your Risk of Cervical Cancer

• Get regular PAP smears.
• Do not smoke, as it doubles your chance of getting cancer of the cervix.
• Eat healthy foods, including dark green leafy vegetables, red/orange/yellow fruits and vegetables, and whole grain foods.
  
• Consider decisions about sex very carefully. The younger you begin having sex, the greater your risk for developing cancer of the cervix.
  
• Being abstinent/Not having sex prevents sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) including HIV/AIDS and greatly reduces your risk for cancer of the cervix.
  
• If you do have sex, sex with a lifelong partner who is free from STDs is the safest sex. Otherwise, limit the number of sexual partners. Do not have sex with anyone who has a STD. Always use a condom during sex. The more people you have sex with, the greater your risk for STDs, HIV/AIDS and cancer of the cervix.

  Source: Contraceptive Technology, Hatcher RA, 1994

Pap Smear FAQs

Women's Health

Women's Reproductive Health

Breast Self-Exams

Monthly Breast Exams

Cervical Cancer & Pap Tests

Pap Smear FAQs

Contraception