Cervical Cancer Screening
Cervical Cancer Screening
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer, especially when detected early through regular screening. At City Care Hospital’s Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, our Clinic for Cervical Cancer Screening is dedicated to providing comprehensive screening services, early diagnosis, and preventive care to safeguard women’s health. We offer advanced screening methods, personalized counseling, and expert care to ensure that women have the best chance of preventing cervical cancer or detecting it in its earliest stages.
Our Services
At our Clinic for Cervical Cancer Screening, we provide a range of services that focus on early detection, prevention, and education. Our goal is to ensure that women receive the care they need to protect themselves against cervical cancer.
- Pap Smear (Pap Test):
The Pap smear is the primary screening tool used to detect abnormal cells in the cervix before they turn into cancer. During a Pap test, a sample of cells is collected from the cervix and examined under a microscope to identify any abnormalities. A regular Pap smear can help detect precancerous changes early, allowing for prompt treatment and preventing the development of cervical cancer. - Routine Pap Smears: We recommend that women begin Pap smear screenings at the age of 21 and continue them at regular intervals, as recommended by their healthcare provider. Women with certain risk factors, such as a history of HPV infection or weakened immune systems, may require more frequent testing.
- Abnormal Pap Results: If abnormal cells are found, further diagnostic tests may be necessary. Our clinic provides follow-up care, including colposcopy and biopsy, to determine the extent of any abnormalities and the appropriate course of treatment.
- HPV Testing:
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing is often done in conjunction with a Pap smear, especially for women over the age of 30. HPV testing checks for the presence of high-risk HPV types that are most likely to cause cervical cancer. By identifying an HPV infection early, we can monitor the patient closely and intervene before cancer develops. - Co-Testing: For women aged 30 and older, we recommend co-testing, which combines a Pap smear with HPV testing. This dual approach provides a more comprehensive assessment of cervical cancer risk.
- HPV Vaccination: The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection with the high-risk types of HPV that cause cervical cancer. We offer the HPV vaccine to eligible patients as a preventive measure, helping protect against both cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers.
- Colposcopy:
If a Pap smear or HPV test indicates abnormal results, we may recommend a colposcopy, a procedure that allows us to examine the cervix more closely. During a colposcopy, a specialized instrument called a colposcope is used to magnify the cervix, making it easier to detect abnormal areas. If necessary, a small tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken for further analysis. - Biopsy and Treatment of Precancerous Cells: If precancerous cells are detected, our clinic offers several treatment options to remove or destroy the abnormal cells before they progress to cancer. Treatments may include cryotherapy, laser therapy, or loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP).
- Education and Preventive Counseling:
At our clinic, we believe that education and preventive care are key to reducing the risk of cervical cancer. We provide personalized counseling to help women understand their risk factors and make informed decisions about their health. Our counseling services cover topics such as: - Safe Sexual Practices: Since HPV is transmitted through sexual contact, we offer guidance on safe sex practices, including the use of condoms and the importance of regular screening for sexually active individuals.
- Importance of Regular Screenings: We emphasize the importance of routine cervical cancer screenings and help women understand how often they should be screened based on their age, medical history, and risk factors.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including quitting smoking and following a balanced diet, can help reduce the risk of cervical cancer. We provide advice and resources to support women in making positive changes for their long-term health.
- Management of Advanced Cervical Cancer:
In the event that cervical cancer is diagnosed, our clinic provides expert management and treatment in collaboration with our oncology team. Early-stage cervical cancer may be treated with surgery, while more advanced stages may require radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of treatments. We offer comprehensive care and support throughout the treatment journey, ensuring that patients receive the highest quality care and emotional support. - Follow-Up Care:
For women who have been treated for abnormal cervical cells or cervical cancer, regular follow-up care is essential to monitor for recurrence and ensure continued health. Our clinic provides ongoing monitoring and follow-up Pap smears, HPV testing, and other necessary evaluations to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.
Understanding Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer occurs when abnormal cells on the cervix (the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina) grow uncontrollably. The most common cause of cervical cancer is a persistent infection with certain types of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted virus. While most HPV infections resolve on their own, in some cases, they can lead to precancerous changes in the cervical cells, which may eventually develop into cancer if left untreated.
Cervical cancer typically progresses slowly over many years, making regular screening essential for early detection and prevention. Symptoms of cervical cancer may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, and pain during intercourse, but these signs often appear only in more advanced stages of the disease. This is why early screening is crucial, even in the absence of symptoms.
Why Choose City Care Hospital?
Our hospital is home to a diverse team of highly qualified and experienced doctors, specialists, and healthcare professionals committed to providing
the highest standard of care.
We offer cutting-edge medical technology and modern
facilities to ensure accurate diagnostics and effective treatments, all under one roof.
From emergency services to specialized clinics, we provide a full range of healthcare services tailored to meet the unique needs of every patient.
We adhere to the highest standards of safety and
quality in all aspects of healthcare delivery, ensuring our patients receive the best possible outcomes.
Our fully equipped emergency department is open around the clock, ready to handle any medical situation with prompt and professional care.
: Our focus is on personalized care, ensuring that every
patient receives compassionate attention and treatment that is designed specifically for
their needs.