Cervical Cancer Screening

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1 Cervical Cancer Screening

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3 Because you are a woman You are precious Get a Cervical Screening test A few awkward minutes that could save your life

4 What is a Cervical Screening Cytology test? It is a test to check the health of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus (womb) that opens into the vagina (birth canal). The cytology test can tell if you have normal, healthy cervical cells or whether an infection or abnormal (unhealthy) cervical cells are present. It is NOT a test for diagnosing cervical cancer.

5 Why do I need a Cytology Test? Getting regular Cytology tests is the best thing you can do to: Increase early detection of pre-invasive cervical abnormalities. Provide appropriate referral and management of detected abnormalities. Early detection and treatment of cervical abnormalities can prevent the development of cervical cancer. Early treatment can prevent most cases of cervical cancer from developing. Reduce the incidence of invasive cervical cancer.

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7 Who should have the cervical screening test? It is important for all women who are sexually active and aged 21 years and above to have a cervical screening test. Cervical cancer is more common if you are: Smoking. Previous infection with the human papillomavirus. Sexual Intercourse from an early age. You have had several sexual partners. You have had a sexual partner who has had several other partners. If you have passed the menopause, you still need to be tested to check that your cervix is healthy. Ask your doctor for advice. How often do I need to get a Cytology test? A woman s first Cytology test should be done three (3) years after her first vaginal intercourse, from age 21 till 65 years old and for 3 years interval.

8 You may need more frequent testing if: You have a weakened immune system because of organ transplant, chemotherapy, or steroid use. What is the best time for screening? Between the 10th & 14th day from the first day of your last menstrual cycle. Your mother was exposed to diethylstilbestrol (DES) while pregnant. You are HIV-positive.

9 What are the necessary precautions required prior to your screening test? Many things can cause inaccurate test results such as washing away or hiding abnormal cells of the cervix. So, avoid doing the following 2-3 days before your screening test: When will I get the results of my Cytology test? It takes 2 weeks to get the results. If the test shows that something might be wrong it usually does not mean you have cancer, but you may need further tests. Douching. Using tampons. Using vaginal creams, suppositories, and medicines. Using vaginal deodorant sprays or powders. Having sexual intercourse.

10 My Cytology test was "abnormal" what happens now? An abnormal result usually means that small changes have been found in the cells on the cervix (the neck of the womb). Not all abnormal results require further investigation or treatment. Your physician may advise to wait and see and then re-do the test. Alternatively the physician may wish to investigate further in which case you will be referred on to a specialist. Generally, Cervical Cancer does not often have symptoms. However, the following symptoms often suggest abnormalities, so seeking prompt medical advice is necessary: Unusual vaginal bleeding at anytime. Unusual vaginal discharges. Vaginal bleeding after douching, or pelvic examination. It usually takes many years for cancer of the cervix to develop. So it is very rare, especially in women who have regular cervical screening, for an abnormal result to show that cancer has already developed.

11 Early Detection Is Important. Early detection of cancer improves the chances of successful treatment. The most reliable and practical way to prevent cervical cancer is through CERVICAL CYTOLOGY

12 Sehim Bin Hamad St. C Ring Road, Doha, Qatar T: E: info@phcc.gov.qa P.O.Box: 26555