7 Common Myths About Cervical Cancer
When the cells of the cervix start multiplying and dividing abnormally, cervical cancer occurs. Cervical cancer is one of the most common gynecological cancers seen in women. In most instances, cervical cancer is caused due to infection by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Some of the symptoms that indicate cervical cancer include the following,
- Abnormal or unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge
- Pain in the pelvis region
- Frequent urge to pee
- Painful urination
- Blood in the urine
- Painful bowel movements
- Sudden loss of weight and appetite
- Fatigue
Just like every disease, there are several myths surrounding cervical cancer. Most people believe these myths to be true. So, what are these cervical cancer myths and facts?
In this blog, we will be debunking 7 myths about cervical cancer. So please keep reading to learn more.
The 7 Myths About Cervical Cancer
MYTH 1: If you are infected with human papillomavirus, then you will get cervical cancer
FACT: Although HPV is one of the most common risk factors for cervical cancer, it does not mean that a person infected with HPV will always get cervical cancer. Human papillomavirus infection is a very common infection, and most women are prone to contracting it at some point in their life. However, it does not mean that they will definitely get cervical cancer. Women who have been exposed to HPV are advised to get periodic screening and diagnosis done as a precautionary measure to detect and treat cervical cancer in its early stages.
MYTH 2: There is no way to prevent cervical cancer
FACT: The risk of cervical cancer can be reduced by getting vaccinated, not smoking, avoiding having sex with multiple partners or at an early age, preventing infections like chlamydia and HIV, and boosting immunity.
MYTH 3: I don't need to get regular screening done because I don't have a family history of cervical cancer.
FACT: Although a family history of cervical cancer acts as a risk factor for developing cervical cancer, in most instances, cervical cancer is caused as a result of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. And, since anyone can contract HPV infection, it is essential to get screened regularly for cervical cancer for its early detection and screening.
MYTH 4: I don't need to get screening tests done since I don't have any symptoms of cervical cancer
FACT: A screening test for cervical cancer is performed to look for cancer cells in a person who is not experiencing any symptoms and feels healthy. This is because, in its early stages, cervical cancer symptoms are not very prominent, and hence a regular screening will help in detecting the abnormal cells even if the patient is not experiencing any symptoms.
MYTH 5: Using Condoms while having sex will protect me against HPV.
FACT: HPV can transmit through skin-to-skin contact, even when using a condom.
MYTH 6: I won't be able to get pregnant now that I have HPV.
FACT: Although the treatments for cervical cancer include treatments like hysterectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, the latest treatment options available today can help treat cervical cancer without causing fertility issues. However, it is still better to discuss any fertility concerns the patient may have before undergoing treatment for cervical cancer.
MYTH 7: The exact causes of cervical cancer are not known.
FACT: It has been confirmed that HPV is a cause of cervical cancer.
Conclusion
Cervical cancer is common cancer that is seen in women. Experts have recommended that women from the age of 21 to 29 must get a pap test done every 3 years, whereas women between the age 30-64 must get a pap and HPV test done every 5 years. This is because there are no visible symptoms of cervical cancer in its early stages, making its screening extremely important for enabling its early detection and treatment.
