Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is a common type of cancer that affects a woman’s cervix due to an abnormal growth of the cells forming this part. The HPV vaccine is the best way to prevent it.
What Causes Cervical Cancer?
- A Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infection.
- Neglecting personal hygiene.
- Smoking. Some studies found a correlation between smoking and cervical cancer.
- Skin-to-skin and sexual contact.
- Some acquired immunodeficiency diseases leave a person more susceptible to HPV.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding that happens at times other than menstruation.
- Constant vaginal discharge.
- Pain in the cervix during intercourse.
- Bone or lower abdomen pain.
- Weight loss and fatigue.
How Is Cervical Cancer Diagnosed?
- Clinical examination and colposcopy.
- Pap smear.
- Cervical biopsy of the cervical cells so they can be examined in a lab under a microscope.
- Blood test.
How to Prevent Cervical Cancer
To prevent cervical cancer:
- Get the HPV vaccine.
- Get regularly checked to detect tumors early on.
- Get a Pap smear every 3 years from age 21 to 65 if you have ever had sexual contact, to detect any cervical cell changes as soon as they occur.
- Adhere to general hygiene guidelines.
- Quit smoking.
The HPV Vaccine
Why Should You Get Vaccinated?
There are several HPV types that could cause many types of cancer. This is why the HPV vaccine is the best way to prevent cervical cancer and other types of cancers caused by HPV.
Is the Vaccine Safe and Effective?
Yes, HPV vaccines provide an effective, long-term protection from HPV.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
The vaccine is given as follows:
| Group | Doses | Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| Girls aged 9-14 | Two | Given by a licensed health practitioner, with an interval of 6-12 months between the two doses. |
| Girls and women over the age of 15 | Three | The first dose is given at any suitable time. The second dose should be given 2 months after the first dose. The third dose should be given 6 months after the first dose. |
What Are the Side Effects?
The common side effects of the HPV vaccine are expected to be mild. They include:
- Headache.
- Swelling, pain, and redness at the injection site.
Preventive services for Cervical Cancer
These are the preventive services recommended for adults in Saudi Arabia that relate to this topic.
Cervical Cancer Screening
Cervical cancer screening is recommended for all women aged 21-65 years who have ever had sexual contact, repeated every 3 years.
Find out which screenings, vaccines and counseling you need for your age, gender and health
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