Cervical cancer affects over 14,000 women in the United States annually, with approximately 4,300 succumbing to the disease. The impact is even more profound in low-income regions, where women often lack access to health care. However, it is vital to remember that cervical cancer is largely preventable. Vaccines and regular screenings, including Pap smears and HPV screenings, are critical in prevention.
According to experts in women's health, addressing cervical cancer requires more than just health care access; it necessitates comfort and confidence in discussing sexual and reproductive health with health care providers. Women should feel empowered to converse about their health, seeking preventive measures to reduce their risks significantly.
Before delving deeper into cervical health awareness, it's important to understand the basic anatomy of the cervix. The cervix is located in the pelvic cavity, anywhere from three to six inches inside the vaginal canal, connecting the uterus to the vagina. Think of the cervix as a donut with four main parts:
- Internal os: hole on the bottom of the donut, further away from where you are looking
- External os: hole on top of the donut closest to where you are looking.
- Endocervical canal: space between both openings in the donut (where they cut out the donut holes)
- Ectocervix: outside portion of cervix- think of the top portion of the doughnut where the icing and sprinkles are. This is the area that is mainly sampled by pap smears.
The cervix plays several critical roles in reproductive health, including allowing menstrual fluid to exit, serving as the birth canal during delivery, and protecting the uterus from infections. It is imperative that women consistently engage in conversations about their health, emphasizing the importance of regular screenings and vaccinations.
The conversation around cervical health needs to be amplified. Sharing experiences, understanding the statistics that surround cervical cancer, and recognizing the importance of preventative measures can save lives.
Let us work together to ensure that cervical health is openly discussed and more women are informed and empowered regarding their health choices. The goal is a world where cervical cancer is significantly reduced, if not eradicated, through awareness and proactive health care practices.
All women should begin cervical cancer screenings at the age of 21. If you are age 30 or older, talk with your provider about your personal risk and what testing options are right for you.
