Cervical cancer is something many women have heard about but may not fully understand. It often feels far removed, especially when there are no symptoms and life feels busy. Yet cervical cancer affects thousands of women in South Africa every year, and many of these cases could be prevented with regular screening.
One of the challenges with cervical cancer is that it can develop quietly. You may feel completely well while changes are happening in the body. This is why understanding the condition and knowing when to screen is so important.
Women often put their own health second while caring for everyone else. When there is no pain or discomfort it is easy to assume everything is fine. With cervical cancer however early stages often do not cause noticeable symptoms. Let’s explore what cervical cancer is first.
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. In the early stages it often causes no pain or noticeable symptoms, which is why many women are unaware there is a problem.
Most cases of cervical cancer are linked to a common virus called HPV. Many women are exposed to HPV at some point in their lives and the body usually clears it on its own. In some cases however the virus remains and causes changes in the cells of the cervix over time.
If these changes are not picked up early through screening they can develop into cervical cancer. The good news is that regular screening can detect these changes early, making cervical cancer one of the most preventable cancers when found in time.
What does ‘screening’ mean?
Cervical cancer screening looks for early changes in the cells of the cervix before cancer develops. These changes cannot be felt and often do not cause symptoms, which is why screening is important even when you feel well.
A Pap smear checks for abnormal cells on the cervix. An HPV test checks for the presence of the virus that can cause these cell changes. Both tests are simple and quick, and a healthcare professional can advise which test is right for you based on your age and health history.
Regular screening allows problems to be found early, when they are easiest to treat. This can prevent cervical cancer from developing in the first place.
When and How Often Should You Screen?
In South Africa women are encouraged to start cervical cancer screening from the age of 25. If results are normal screening is usually recommended every three to five years, depending on the type of test used.
Women living with HIV or those with a weakened immune system may need to be screened more often. A healthcare professional can provide personalised advice based on your individual risk.
Signs and Symptoms to Be Aware Of?
In the early stages cervical cancer often has no symptoms. As it progresses some women may notice unusual vaginal bleeding, bleeding after intercourse, pelvic pain or unusual discharge.
These symptoms do not always mean cancer, but they should never be ignored. Early assessment can help rule out serious conditions and provide peace of mind.
Cervical cancer does not develop overnight, and that is what makes prevention so powerful. Regular screening gives you the chance to detect changes early, often long before they become serious. Taking this small step can make a meaningful difference to your long term health and wellbeing.
If you are unsure when you last screened, or if you have questions about cervical health, you do not have to figure it out alone. Your healthcare provider or local Ringpharm pharmacist can guide you on the next steps and help you make informed choices with confidence and peace of mind.
This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. For personalised health guidance, consult with your healthcare provider or visit your local Ringpharm pharmacy.