cervical cancer Archives - Women's Health and Menopause Center

Cervical Cancer

trystan — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 16:28:05 +0000

Cervical cancer occurs within the cells of the cervix. Cervical cancer is caused by the Human papillomavirus, more commonly known as HPV. HPV is a sexually transmitted disease. Although HPV is common, most cases of HPV do not result in cervical cancer. The body can defend against the virus, preventing the development of cancerous cells. Factors that increase the risk for cervical cancer include smoking, a family history of the disease, and a low immune system. Squamous cell carcinoma occurs when the cancerous cells form in the lining of your cervix and accounts for about 90% of all cervical cancer cases.

Although cervical cancer is not entirely preventable, there are some steps women can take to reduce their risk. A regular visit to your OBGYN is critical to your health. Your doctor will conduct pap tests and cervical cancer screens that can detect the disease early on.

As HPV is a sexually transmitted disease, using protection will significantly reduce the risk of contracting it. Additionally, the CDC recommends that all women through the age of 26 receive the HPV vaccine. Those 9-years and older can receive the vaccine.

Symptoms are often not present during the early stages of cervical cancer. However, if you experience any of the below symptoms, be sure to reach out to your doctor right away.

Abnormal vaginal bleeding
Pelvic Pain
Lower Back Pain
Decreased appetite

If there is a cervical cancer diagnosis, your doctor will determine the stage and severity of the disease. They will then develop a treatment plan based on your unique situation.

Surgery can treat the early stages of cervical cancer. Your doctor will present a few options for surgery that will be thoroughly discussed with you, ensuring all of your questions and concerns are addressed. Radiation and chemotherapy are also options in some cases.

Cervical cancer can be detected early by keeping up with yearly pap smears and doctor’s visits. If detected early on, the survival rate is around 90%. All of our patients are encouraged to contact us if they have any concerns regarding cervical cancer or any other medical questions.

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Cervical Cancer Awareness

Women's Health and Menopause Center — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 19:19:54 +0000

“The Best Protection Is Early Detection”

Cervical Cancer can be significantly reduced with the Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine and appropriate Pap smear screenings to collect cells from your cervix for testing. CDC guidelines recommend regular screenings beginning at age 21. Screenings, including the Pap test and HPV test. Contact Women’s Health in West Bloomfield for an appointment.

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HPV Screenings

Women's Health and Menopause Center — Fri, 18 Dec 2020 17:47:29 +0000

Pap test and HPV test screenings are recommended for all women beginning at age 21 including those who have been vaccinated against HPV since the vaccine works for new infections and does not treat existing disease. This is why the HPV vaccine is best received when given before any exposure to HPV. To learn more, visit the Center for Disease Control webpage.

Contact Womens’s Health and Menopause Center in West Bloomfield, Michigan to schedule an appointment for your screening today.

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Do I Need a Pap Smear When I’m Not Sexually Active?

Women's Health and Menopause Center — Wed, 19 Feb 2020 21:27:50 +0000

Starting at age 21, even if you have not yet had sex, you do need a pap smear. It is true that most cervical cancer is caused from the HPV virus but it is possible to get HPV from skin to skin contact. Pap smears help with early detection and to establish a baseline. All adult women should see their gynecologist on an annual basis, so changes can be discussed and appropriate screenings provided. Schedule an appointment at Women’s Health West Bloomfield office.

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Cervical Health Awareness Month

Women's Health and Menopause Center — Mon, 06 Jan 2020 20:39:54 +0000

Every year, over 13,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer. Cervical Health Awareness Month is a great time to bring awareness to save women’s lives by visiting their gynecologist for the recommended Pap test and receiving the proper HPV vaccination dosages. Men and women should receive this vaccine; it saves lives! Contact Women’s Health in West Bloomfield for an appointment today.

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Reasons for Having a Hysterectomy

Women's Health and Menopause Center — Fri, 19 Jan 2018 21:17:41 +0000

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing the uterus. There are three primary types of hysterectomy that your doctor may recommend based on your medical needs. They include:

Total Hysterectomy – This procedure includes removal of the uterus and cervix.
Subtotal Hysterectomy – This procedure includes removal of the uterus only, leaving the cervix intact.
Radical Hysterectomy – This procedure involves removal of the uterus, cervix, ovaries, and support structures. Lymph nodes may also be removed.

Why Do I Need a Hysterectomy?

The idea of having a hysterectomy may sound frightening. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that around 600,000 women in America have hysterectomies each year. This procedure is one of the most common surgeries women undergo in the country. It is done for multiple reasons, including:

Prolapsed uterus
Cancer found in the cervix, ovaries, or womb
Heavy periods that are often caused by fibroids
Pelvic pain due to fibroids, adenomyosis, endometriosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

Medically Necessary vs. Elective Hysterectomies

Out of those 600,000 women quoted by the CDC, an estimated 20% to 30% or more have a medically unnecessary hysterectomy. Women with endometrium issues like polyps, fibroids, and heavy bleeding may choose to have the surgery to relieve discomfort.

A prolapsed uterus happens when the pelvic organs descend due to weakened ligaments or muscles. This can lead to problems with intercourse, increased discharge, constipation, cosmetic issues, and discomfort. Women can choose to have a uterine suspension or a hysterectomy to correct the problem.

In cases involving cancer, a hysterectomy may be deemed medically necessary if the patient has progressed to an advanced stage. The procedure can be used to treat cervical, ovarian, uterine, and fallopian tube cancer.

Your OB/GYN can provide more insight into whether a hysterectomy is the best option for you. Contact your gynecologist at Women’s Health and Menopause Center today to make an appointment.

#WomensHealthandMenopauseCenter #Hysterectomy #OBGYN #WomensWellness

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