How to Detect Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer kills approximately 4,000 women every year in the United States. The key to survival from Cervical cancer is early detection. A simple, non-invasive test can be performed in your doctor's office to screen you for Cervical cancer. Detecting the disease in its early stages is the key to preventing the cancer from spreading throughout your body. It is recommended that all women age 21 years and older have an annual, routine Pap smear. Currently there are two tests available to detect abnormal cervical cells, the routine Pap test and a new, liquid based Pap smear. Pap smears are simple tests that are easily administered by your doctor. She will gently scrape the inside and outside of your cervix and send the smear, or cells, to a pathologist who will examine the cells for any abnormalities.

Instructions

• 1

  Make an appointment with your doctor. Any family practitioner can perform a pap smear, but preferably you will see a gynecologist. A gynecologist specializes in women's reproductive health.

• 2

  See your doctor. During the appointment, your doctor will perform a routine examination including a pap smear.

• 3

  Understand the facts. Having an annual pap smear reduces your risk of getting cervical cancer. By detecting abnormal cells early, you can receive treatment and have a better chance of survival.

• 4

  Know the symptoms. Abnormal symptoms which sometimes preclude cervical cancer are abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, unusual vaginal discharge, and dysuria (painful urination).

• 5

  Talk to your doctor. Get information about cervical cancer and annual pap smear screenings.