Empower Your Wellness: Understanding the Importance of Cervical Health

Dr. Nimmy N John
24 minutes ago
3 min read

January is widely recognized as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month or Cervical Health Awareness Month in Canada and by many health organizations. This observance focuses on raising awareness about cervical cancer prevention, HPV vaccination, regular screening, and early detection to help reduce the burden of this largely preventable disease

Cervical health is a vital part of overall well-being for people with a cervix. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina, and while it plays an important role in reproductive health, it can also be affected by conditions that develop silently over time. Understanding cervical health and how to protect it can save lives.

Why Cervical Health Is Important

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, yet it can be life-threatening if not detected early. In its early stages, cervical cancer often causes no noticeable symptoms, which is why prevention and regular screening are so important.

The main cause of cervical cancer is a long-lasting infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is extremely common and is spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact. Most HPV infections go away on their own, but when they don’t, they can lead to abnormal cell changes in the cervix that may progress to cancer if untreated.

The good news is that with the tools available today — vaccination, screening, and education — cervical cancer is largely preventable.

Why Knowing About Prevention Matters

Knowing how cervical cancer develops empowers people to take control of their health. Prevention helps:

● Detect abnormal cervical cell changes before cancer develops

● Reduce the number of cervical cancer cases and deaths

● Promote informed healthcare decisions and early treatment

● Break down stigma and fear around cervical screening.

Awareness also supports inclusive care, as anyone with a cervix — including cisgender women, trans men, and some non-binary people — may need cervical screening.

Steps You Can Take to Protect Your Cervical Health

1. Get the HPV Vaccine

The HPV vaccine protects against the virus types most commonly linked to cervical cancer. It is most effective when given before exposure to HPV, but many adults can still benefit. In Canada, the vaccine is widely available through school programs and healthcare providers.

2. Get Regular Cervical Screening

Cervical screening looks for abnormal cell changes or HPV infection before cancer develops. Depending on your province, this may be done through a Pap test or an HPV test. Screening usually begins around age 25 and continues until about age 70, based on personal health history.

3. Practise Safer Sex

Using condoms or other barrier methods can reduce the risk of HPV transmission. While they do not offer complete protection, they lower overall risk and support sexual health.

4. Avoid Smoking

Smoking weakens the immune system and makes it harder for the body to clear HPV infections, increasing the risk of cervical cancer.

5. Pay Attention to Your Body

Unusual bleeding, pelvic pain, or pain during sex should never be ignored. If something feels off, speak to a healthcare provider — even if your screening is up to date.

Cervical health is about prevention, early detection, and informed care. Regular screening and HPV vaccination have made cervical cancer one of the most preventable cancers today. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, individuals can protect their health and encourage others to do the same.