Start the New Year Off Right with Cervical Health Awareness!

Women should be aware of certain risk factors that may influence their cervical health by increasing the chance of cervical cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, these risk factors are:

- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Lack of regular pap tests
- Smoking
- Weakened immune system (because of HIV or immunosuppressant drugs)
- Sexual history
- Using birth control pills for a long time
- Having many children
- Exposure to diethylstilbestrol

One way to stay aware of your cervical health is with a Pap test. The National Cancer Institute suggests women should have a Pap test at least once every 3 years once she becomes sexually active or by the age of 21. Keeping up with this test can help detect changes in the cervix sooner, which can lead a higher rate of successful treatment. You should discuss the Pap test with your physician to find out what is best for you.

For more information about Pap smears and cervical health, here are some relevant NetWellness articles:
- Pap Smears and Cervical Cancer Screening
- Safe Sex, Screening Can Reduce Cervical Cancer Risk
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Cervical Cancer
- The HPV Vaccine

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