January is Cervical Health Awareness Month

January is Cervical Health Awareness Month, a time to spread awareness about issues related to cervical cancer, human papillomavirus (HPV) and why early detection is so important. Despite being the most common sexually transmitted infection and affecting roughly 79 million Americans, many women are still unaware about HPV and the ways to stay protected. To help get a better understanding of what this condition entails, take a look at some HPV facts everyone should know.

Five Things to Know about HPV

1. There are many different types of HPV. There are more than 100 different types of the HPV virus, but the majority of them are harmless, don't present any symptoms, and clear up on their own. There are 40 sexually-transmitted forms of this virus that can affect the genitals, mouths, and throats of both males and females.
2. There are vaccines to protect against the high-risk forms of HPV. Gardasil and Cervarix are vaccines that help protect against the high-risk forms of HPV. While Gardasil targets the forms of HPV that cause genital warts, Cervarix works to protect women from cervical cancer.
3. HPV is a major cause of cervical cancer. Researchers claim that more than 99% of cervical cancers are caused by high-risk forms of the HPV virus. To help lower your risk, make sure to get vaccinated and schedule routine screening tests starting at age 21.
4. Regular Pap tests and follow-up care can often prevent cervical cancer. Pap tests (Pap smears) are designed to look for abnormalities or precancers on the cervix so that they can be addressed before they become cervical cancer. From the ages of 21 to 65, you should continue getting routine Pap tests as directed by your doctor.
5. There's no treatment for the virus, but the diseases it causes can be treated. While there is currently no treatment available for the HPV virus, genital warts, cervical precancers, and other HPV-related cancers can be treatable if diagnosed early.

For More Information about HPV and Cervical Cancer, Contact the Women's Health Medical Group, P.A. Today.

To learn more about cervical health and what you can do to keep yourself healthy, contact us today to schedule an appointment. Our offices are located in Fort Worth, Burleson, Granbury and Lake Worth, and we can be reached at 817-346-5336. We hope to hear from you soon.