Cervical Cancer: Prevention & Screening |
|
| Most cases of cervical cancer can be prevented by avoiding exposure to the primary cause, which is infection with the Human Papilloma virus (HPV). In addition to practicing safe sexual practices (e.g. using a condom), women should talk with their doctor about a new vaccine called Gardisil®, that protects women from HPV infection if administered before an abnormal Pap test develops. Although the vaccine is designed for females in the 11- to 26-year-old age range, ask your doctor if you might benefit. The vaccine does not protect against all cancer-causing types of HPV, so routine Pap tests should still be done. Additionally, the vaccine cannot be used to treat an existing infection. |
|
Related Health Info 
Cervical Cancer Screening
Cervical Cancer Prevention
Watch an online lecture "HPV and the New Vaccine" presented by Dr. Cheryl Saenz for UCSD-TV
|
Screening Recommendations
The most effective method to find abnormal changes in your cervix is the Pap test, which should be done every year. Women over age 70 who have had at least three normal Pap tests in a row in the last 10 years may not need further Pap tests.
To make sure your Pap test results are as accurate as possible:
- do not schedule an appointment during your menstrual period
- do not douche for 48 hours before the test
- do not have sexual intercourse for 48 hours before
- do not use tampons, birth control foams, jellies or other vaginal creams or vaginal medications for 48 hours before the test.
A Pap test is administered during a routine pelvic exam, as the doctor places a plastic or metal speculum inside your vagina to widen it. This allows the doctor to see the vagina and cervix, and to extract a small cell sample for the Pap test.
Learn More About Cervical Cancer
 Request a Consultation with a UCSD Gynecologic Oncology Specialist Using our Online Form
 Call our New Patient Office at (858) 822-6100, or toll-free (866) 773-2703
Gynecologic Cancer Unit
Moores UCSD Cancer Center
3855 Health Sciences Drive
La Jolla, CA 92093
(866) 773-2703 |