Cervical cancer is defined as the proliferation of malignant cells in the cervix; the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Although, the exact cause of cervical cancer is yet unknown, several scientific studies indicate that the genetic change of the cervical cells may occur due to a sexually transmitted infection caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

Also Read: Cervical Cancer: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
Cervical cancer

Despite all the medical advancements over the years, cancer is one such malady that is still a fascinating subject with ongoing research to find the exact cause and proper cure. But owing to a looming sense of fear surrounding this chronic malady, people remain shackled with predispositions and false beliefs and Cervical cancer is no exception to it. Despite being the second-most common form of cancer affecting women throughout the globe, there is still the unavailability of proper cancer workshops and programs to create cognition about the disease. There are approximately 122,000 new cases of cervical cancer detected annually in our country, out of which 67,500 women succumb to the disease owing to a lack of knowledge regarding it.

Also Read: Cervical Cancer Awareness Month 2023: Early Screening, Prevention and HPV Vaccine 

So, to increase awareness, the first step that is required is to unmask the common myths surrounding cervical cancer.

Scroll down to uncover some of the widespread myths that are associated with cervical cancer, and find out the credible facts.

Debunk These 5 Common Cervical Cancer Notions

Myth #1:

One needs to go for a Pap test annually

Fact:

Untrue! If your Pap test and HPV test are both negative indicating the absence of infection, then there is no requirement for a mandatory Pap test every year. There are some guidelines regarding Cervical cancer for women who have undergone Pap and HPV screenings previously with normal test results:

Ages 21-29: Pap test should be done every three years

Ages 30-64: Pap test and HPV test should be done every five years

Ages 65 and older: Consult the treating doctor whether you need to undergo any test or not

Myth #2:

HPV infection cures on its own

Fact:

Partially true. While some strains of HPV infection might clear up on their own without the woman ever knowing whether she was exposed. However, some chronic strains can persist and thrive in the body and lead to severe health problems such as genital warts and many other types of cancer.

Myth #3:

I cannot become pregnant now that I have had cervical cancer

Fact:

Erroneous! During the treatment of cervical cancer, patients usually undergo a hysterectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy to the pelvic area which might make conception difficult but not impossible. With new and advanced treatment options, doctors can now spare the reproductive organs and patients’ fertility so they can become parents. These improved technologies, allow the treating doctor to freeze the eggs and surgically move the ovaries out of the radiation field to save them from any damage.

Myth #4:

Cervical cancer is genetic

Fact:

Inaccurate! Unlike breast cancer and ovarian cancer, Cervical cancer is not hereditary. One of the most likely reasons behind cervical cancer is HPV infection. So, to protect your child from it, ensure they get the HPV vaccine on time. If you are too old to get the vaccination, then make sure you get regular screenings for HPV and Pap tests according to the guidelines.

Myth #5:

There is nothing I can do to stave off cervical cancer

Fact:

False. Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. A simple pap test can help discern any kind of changes in the cells of the cervix region. And in case any such change is detected, it is likely to start the treatment early and prevent cancer from spreading in the body. Other than timely Pap tests and HPV vaccination, the risk of cervical cancer can be reduced to a huge extent by avoiding:

  • Smoking or consumption of tobacco
  • Chlamydia infection
  • Depreciated immune system or HIV infection
  • Having multiple sexual partners
  • Being sexually active at an early age