Preventing Cervical Cancer: A Quick Guide

gynaecology
05/07/2025

What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is a disease that affects the cervix, which is an organ that is continuous from the lower part of the uterus and connects to the vagina. It often develops slowly over time, beginning with precancerous changes in cervical cells.

Thanks to medical advances, cervical cancer is now one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer if detected early.

Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by persistent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), a very common virus transmitted through sexual contact.

While HPV often goes away on its own, certain high-risk types of the virus can lead to abnormal cell changes in the cervix, which may develop into cancer over time if left untreated.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between periods or after menopause.
  • Menstrual bleeding that is heavier and lasts longer than usual.
  • Watery, bloody vaginal discharge that may be heavy and have a foul odour.
  • Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse.

 

How is cervical cancer prevented?

Practice safe sex

Reduce your risk of cervical cancer by taking measures to prevent sexually transmitted infections. This may include consistent use of condoms during sexual activity and limiting the number of sexual partners.

Screening tests

  • Pap Smear: A small sample of cells is collected using a soft brush to look for abnormal or precancerous changes. The procedure is brief and may cause mild discomfort, but it is usually not painful. It is generally recommended for women aged 25 and above to do a pap smear at least once every three years.
  • HPV test: Checks for the presence of high-risk HPV strains.

 

HPV vaccination

The HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that most commonly cause cervical cancer and females aged 9 to 26 are entitled to medisave usage for vaccination.

Females aged 9-14 years: 2 doses are recommended

Females aged 15 years and above: 3 doses are recommended, with the second dose given 1-2.5 months and the third dose given 5-12 months after the first dose.

If you have already begun your HPV vaccination series, you should continue and complete it with the same HPV vaccine as far as possible.

At our clinic, we use Gardasil 9, the latest and most comprehensive HPV vaccine currently available. It protects against nine types of HPV, including seven high-risk types that are responsible for most cervical cancer cases, and two low-risk types that cause genital warts.

Combining Vaccination and Screening: The Best Defence

While the HPV vaccine greatly reduces your risk of infection, it doesn’t protect against all cancer-causing HPV strains. That’s why regular screening is still essential, even for vaccinated individuals.

Together, vaccination and screening create a strong shield against cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that we can prevent with routine healthcare. At our clinic, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you have questions or are ready to act, visit us today and take charge of your cervical health.