September is Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month, an important opportunity to raise awareness about gynaecological cancers and the steps women can take to look after their health.
One of the most effective ways to protect your health is to stay up to date with cervical screening.
Cervical cancer is largely preventable
Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers where regular screening can help prevent cancer from developing in the first place.
The National Cervical Screening Program recommends that people aged 25 to 74 years who have a cervix have a cervical screening test every five years.
Cervical screening checks for human papillomavirus (HPV), a common infection that causes almost all cervical cancers. HPV often has no symptoms and can remain in the body for many years, which is why regular screening is so important.
When HPV is detected, your healthcare professional can recommend appropriate follow-up. In many cases, changes can be monitored or treated before they develop into cervical cancer.
You can choose how your screening test is done
There are two cervical screening options available through the National Cervical Screening Program. Both options check for human papillomavirus (HPV), the infection that causes almost all cervical cancers.
1. Self-collection
Self-collection allows you to collect your own sample.
Your GP or healthcare professional will explain how to collect the sample, which involves using a small swab to collect a sample from the vagina. You can usually do this yourself in a private space at the medical clinic.
The sample is then sent to the laboratory to test for HPV.
Self-collection is a great option for people who may feel uncomfortable with a traditional cervical examination. The sample does not require a speculum examination of the cervix.
If HPV is detected, your GP will explain what happens next. Depending on the result, you may need further testing, which can include a clinician-collected cervical screening test.
2. Clinician-collected screening
With a clinician-collected cervical screening test, a GP or appropriately trained healthcare professional collects a sample directly from your cervix using a speculum.
The sample is tested for HPV and, where appropriate, may also be examined for abnormal cervical cells.
Some people prefer clinician collection because they are comfortable having their healthcare professional perform the test or because follow-up testing is required.
Which option is right for me?
The best screening option is the one that you feel comfortable having.
If you’re due for cervical screening but have been putting it off because you’re worried about discomfort, embarrassment or having a speculum examination, talk to your GP about whether self-collection may be suitable for you.
If you have symptoms such as unusual vaginal bleeding, bleeding after sex, unusual vaginal discharge or pelvic pain, a cervical screening test is not a diagnostic test for symptoms. Please make an appointment with your GP so your symptoms can be assessed appropriately.
Don’t wait for symptoms
Cervical cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages.
This is why screening is important even if you feel completely healthy.
If you experience symptoms such as unusual vaginal bleeding, bleeding after sex, unusual vaginal discharge or pelvic pain, don’t wait for your next screening test. Make an appointment with your GP to discuss your symptoms.
When was your last cervical screening test?
September is a great time to check whether your cervical screening is up to date.
If you’re due for your cervical screening, or you’re unsure when your last test was, speak with your GP or our friendly team at Strathalbyn Medical Clinic.
Early detection and prevention can make a significant difference.
Take the time to look after your health — book your cervical screening today.
