TryGOLD- Free

8 ways to help prevent cervical cancer
WOMAN - UK|March 11, 2023
If we make sure we keep talking about women's health, we'll help break the taboos - and save lives in the process
8 ways to help prevent cervical cancer

We’re celebrating women this week at Woman magazine. For me, as a doctor, this means championing women’s health. For far too long it’s been mired in silence, shame and stigma, with old-fashioned ideas linking purity and cleanliness to our health. This silence is harming women, so this week we are focusing on a part of your body you may not think about very much – your cervix.

The cervix is the neck of the womb, which opens during labour to allow the baby to come out. It’s found at the top of the vagina and, if you ever examine yourself (perhaps to check for your coil threads), it feels a bit like the tip of your nose. Cervical cancer is the 14th most common cancer affecting females in the UK, with approximately 3,200 people being diagnosed each year. So what should you look for and is there anything you can do to prevent it?

1 KNOW YOUR NORMAL
I’m talking about your vaginal discharge. It’s normal to have some and, if you still have periods, you may notice that it changes throughout your menstrual cycle. But if your ‘normal’ changes, be that in amount, colour or odour, see your GP.

2 LOOK FOR BLEEDING
Any abnormal vaginal bleeding – this includes in between your periods (intermenstrual), after sex (post-coital) and after the menopause (post-menopausal), should be investigated.

3 BE AWARE OF SUBTLE SIGNS
Some of these might seem innocent, such as pain during sex, or in your lower back, tummy or pelvis. Keep a symptom diary and see a doctor promptly.

This story is from the March 11, 2023 edition of WOMAN - UK.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the March 11, 2023 edition of WOMAN - UK.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM WOMAN - UKView All
How to live in financial harmony
WOMAN - UK

How to live in financial harmony

Money is the No 1 cause of quarrels for three out of 10 couples in the UK, according to research by Starling Bank.

time-read
2 mins  |
February 17, 2025
What I really think about pets in the bed
WOMAN - UK

What I really think about pets in the bed

Love to cuddle up to your furry friend at night? There are pros and cons to having an overnight companion...

time-read
2 mins  |
February 17, 2025
The ultimate GETAWAY
WOMAN - UK

The ultimate GETAWAY

Aspen in spring promises unforgettable memories with breathtaking landscapes at every turn

time-read
2 mins  |
February 17, 2025
Karren's new look
WOMAN - UK

Karren's new look

Viewers were taken aback by Karren Brady's recent appearance on The One Show thanks to her glamorous makeover, with many struggling to recognise the Apprentice star and admitting they had to do a 'double take.'

time-read
1 min  |
February 17, 2025
10 questions YOU'RE TOO SCARED TO ASK
WOMAN - UK

10 questions YOU'RE TOO SCARED TO ASK

Don't waste time fretting about that health niggle, our experts can put your mind at ease

time-read
3 mins  |
February 17, 2025
What will make you HAPPIER?
WOMAN - UK

What will make you HAPPIER?

Discover which part of your life is lacking and how to feel more fulfilled

time-read
3 mins  |
February 17, 2025
I'M MORE BEAUTIFUL than ever
WOMAN - UK

I'M MORE BEAUTIFUL than ever

Samantha Brick once went viral for saying women hate her for her beauty. Now 54, she reveals the secret to her confidence

time-read
5 mins  |
February 17, 2025
TV&REVIEWS
WOMAN - UK

TV&REVIEWS

Our pick of what to watch this week, plus the best podcasts and new books...

time-read
1 min  |
February 17, 2025
Why I feel SORRY FOR HARRY
WOMAN - UK

Why I feel SORRY FOR HARRY

Lonely, aimless and unable to make business ideas work. A recent profile of Team Sussex painted Harry as Meghan's useful idiot. So how does he recover

time-read
3 mins  |
February 17, 2025
Does AGE REALLY MATTER?
WOMAN - UK

Does AGE REALLY MATTER?

Apparently, both men and women prefer younger partners. Woman investigates...

time-read
4 mins  |
February 17, 2025

We use cookies to provide and improve our services. By using our site, you consent to cookies. Learn more