» Cervical Cancer

• Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It's most often caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a virus that can be transmitted through sexual contact.

» Main cause.

• Infection with HPV, particularly the high-risk types 16 and 18.
• Having multiple sexual partners, or having sex at a young age.
• Weakened immune system.
• Smoking.

» Initial symptoms (the early stage often has no clear symptoms).

• Abnormal vaginal discharge.
• Bleeding between periods, or after sexual intercourse.
• Bleeding after menopause.
• Pelvic pain.

» Screening.

• Pap Smear (pronounced "pap smear"): A test to check for abnormal cells.
• HPV DNA Test: A test to detect an HPV infection.

» Prevention methods.

• Get the HPV vaccine (it can be administered from age 9 onwards).
• Practice safe sex.
• Get regular women's health checkups (every 1-3 years).

» Treatment (depends on the stage of the disease):

• Surgical removal of the abnormal cells or the cervix.
• Radiation therapy.
• Chemotherapy.

For more details, please contact the Women's Health Center, Building 2, 3rd Floor, Tel. 0 2530 2556 ext. 2310, 2320.