Know Your Cervix

What is the cervix?

The cervix is an important part of your reproductive system – without it, the chances of giving birth are drastically reduced. It's located in the lower part of your uterus (womb), connected to the vagina. In pregnant women, the cervix stays closed to keep the baby inside the womb. Then, the cervix opens during childbirth.¹

What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is a serious disease that can be life-threatening.² It starts when normal cells on your cervix turn into abnormal precancerous cells (or lesions).^1,2 Pap tests check for abnormal cells, so they can be monitored or removed through procedures such as a biopsy (removing the cells by surgery or laser).^2,3

If these cells aren't caught and treated, they could lead to cervical cancer over time.² Treatments for cervical cancer include radiation, chemotherapy, or in some cases, a hysterectomy (removing the womb).⁴

Who is affected by cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer can affect young women in their 20's and 30's.⁵ It's the second most common cancer in women aged 20-44, after breast cancer.⁶ In fact:

– Every day, one Canadian woman dies of cervical cancer.⁷

– Every six hours, another Canadian woman is diagnosed.⁷

Does cervical cancer run in families?

No. Unlike most cancers, cervical cancer is caused by a common virus called HPV (Human Papillomavirus).^2,8 This means that you can actually do something to help prevent it from occurring.

What causes cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is caused by HPV infection.² Up to 4 out of 5 females will be infected with HPV during their lifetime.^* In most cases, HPV doesn't cause any symptoms and goes away on its own. But if you have an infection that doesn't clear, it may lead to cervical cancer over time.²

Are there different types of HPV?

Yes. Low-risk types do not cause cervical cancer, while high-risk types can cause cervical cancer.⁹

How is HPV spread?

HPV is spread through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity.² The truth is, you can be infected with cancer-causing HPV after only one exposure to someone who has the virus.¹⁰ And while condoms provide some protection, HPV can still be spread through contact with areas that aren't covered.¹¹ In other words, you can get HPV through oral or hand-genital contact - not just intercourse.^12,13

Can you get HPV more than once?

Yes. Even if you have been exposed to HPV, your body may not develop long-term protection against it. That means you could be infected again. Each time, there's a risk the virus won't go away and could lead to cervical cancer.²

What is a Pap test?

A Pap test helps find early abnormal cells in the cervix that could become cancerous. During the test, a small sample of cells is lightly scraped from the surface of the cervix and sent to a lab for testing.⁵ It's very important to get regular Pap tests, as they can help detect abnormal cells – so they can be treated.² Your doctor can tell you how often you should be tested.

Why is it important to help protect myself now?

HPV infections are most common in teens and young adults between the ages of 18 and 25.¹¹ If you become infected with HPV, there's no way to know for sure whether your body will clear the virus. If it doesn't, cervical cancer could develop.²

So now what?

Hopefully, now you know a little more about your cervix and the risks of cervical cancer. The next step is to talk with your doctor. It might not be the easiest conversation, but asking about the different ways you can protect yourself – including regular Pap tests – could help save your life.