PAP Smear & Vaccination For Females

Too many women – particularly the poorest women – continue to die from cervical cancer, a disease that is both preventable and treatable. The burden of this disease disproportionately affects low- and middle-income nations, where access to the national HPV vaccine, cervical screening, and treatment programs is limited, compounded by various social and economic factors. Persistent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) over an extended period is a primary cause of cervical cancer. Women living with HIV face a six-fold increased risk of developing cervical cancer compared to those without HIV.

However, there are highly effective and affordable preventive measures against cervical cancer, including the prophylactic HPV vaccine and screening and treatment of precancerous lesions. Early detection and prompt treatment substantially improve the chances of curing cervical cancer. Dr. Sunita Arora, an Obstetrician, Gynecologist, and Fertility Specialist in Delhi, emphasizes the importance of early detection and regular screening for cervical cancer, which encompasses Pap tests and HPV vaccination. By understanding the significance of Pap screenings and the HPV vaccine, individuals can empower themselves to make informed health choices and play an active role in preventing cervical cancer.

Cervical Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer screening aims to identify abnormalities in cervical cells that could progress to cancer. Methods such as cervical cytology (commonly called the Pap test or Pap smear) and human papillomavirus (HPV) testing are utilized for screening purposes. It is generally recommended for most women to undergo regular cervical cancer screenings.

HPV Vaccination

HPV vaccines offer protection against the widespread sexually transmitted virus, human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV infects a significant portion of sexually active individuals at some stage in their lives. While the body can often clear the virus naturally, persistent infection can lead to cervical, anal, and throat cancers, as well as genital warts.

Pap Smears

Screening recommendations for cervical cancer prevention:

• Under 25: Routine screenings are typically not advised.
• Between 25 and 69: Screening every three years is recommended.
• Seventy and above: Screening may be unnecessary if you've had three consecutive negative Pap test results within the last ten years. However, if you still need to undergo regular screenings, continuing until you achieve three negative results is advisable.
• If you've had a hysterectomy: Consult Dr. Sunita Arora. Depending on your medical history, screening may not be necessary.

Dr. Sunita Arora will recommend a follow-up plan based on your results and your age.

Test Results

You should expect to receive your test results within approximately three weeks. Dr. Sunita Arora will contact you to discuss the next steps if abnormalities are detected. There are various reasons why results may deviate from the norm, and it's important to note that abnormal results do not necessarily indicate cancer.

• Abnormal Findings: If your results show abnormalities that could progress to cancer, Dr. Sunita Arora will recommend whether treatment is necessary. In most cases, early intervention can prevent cervical cancer from developing. Following up with Dr. Sunita Arora promptly is crucial to learn more about your results and any required treatment.
• Typical Results: If your results are expected, the likelihood of developing cervical cancer in the coming years is minimal. Dr. Sunita Arora may advise waiting a few years before scheduling your next cervical cancer screening. However, regular checkups with Dr. Sunita Arora are still essential.

Who should refrain from receiving the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is not recommended if you:

• Are pregnant. Due to limited research on the vaccine's safety during pregnancy, it's advisable to defer vaccination until after childbirth. However, if you discover you're pregnant after receiving a dose, rest assured, as the HPV vaccine isn't linked to pregnancy complications.
• You have experienced a reaction to a previous dose. If you reacted to an earlier HPV shot or its components, including severe allergies such as yeast or latex allergies, it's important to inform Dr. Sunita Arora. They can assess your risk of an allergic reaction and advise accordingly.
• If you are experiencing moderate to severe illness, it may be necessary to postpone vaccination until you recover fully. Consult Dr. Sunita Arora to determine the appropriate time to receive the vaccine.

HPV Vaccine

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a prevalent sexually transmitted infection with over 200 strains, some of which can lead to cervical cancer in women and other cancers in both genders. While most HPV infections resolve on their own, persistent infections with certain strains can cause abnormal cell growth, potentially leading to cancer over time.

Vaccination Benefits

Vaccines target the specific HPV strains posing the highest cancer risk. The most common vaccines cover either two (HPV 16 and 18) or nine strains, accounting for about 90% of cervical cancers. Experts recommend HPV vaccination for children ages 11 or 12, starting at nine. Although ideally administered before sexual activity begins, the vaccine can still be beneficial up to age 26 for those previously unvaccinated.

Dispelling Misinformation

The HPV vaccine is not solely for girls but is recommended for both genders to prevent various HPV-related cancers. It remains effective even after exposure to HPV and is a safe and potent preventive measure against cancer.

Combating Cervical Cancer

• Prevention Approach: Cervical cancer prevention involves a comprehensive strategy incorporating the HPV vaccine and regular Pap smears. While serving different purposes, these methods complement each other and offer robust protection.
• Working in Tandem: Consider the HPV vaccine as a barrier shielding against most high-risk HPV strains, while Pap smears act as vigilant sentinels, detecting precancerous cells before they progress. While the vaccine may not cover all HPV strains, and breakthrough infections can occur, Pap smears can identify abnormalities caused by non-covered strains and detect breakthrough infections early.

Conclusion

Cervical cancer is preventable with proactive measures. The HPV vaccine protects against common cancer-causing strains, while Pap smears offer early detection and intervention. They work synergistically to safeguard cervical health. Consult Dr. Sunita Arora about HPV vaccination and establish regular Pap smear screenings to minimize your cervical cancer risk effectively.