Cervical Cancer Awareness Week

Cervical Cancer Prevention Week is an opportunity to raise awareness on the risks of cervical cancer, and help women and people learn about how to reduce these risks and prevent the illness.

What is cervical screening?

Cervical screening, also known as a smear test, is a simple and important way to help prevent cervical cancer. It checks the health of your cervix, by identifying early cell changes that could, if left untreated, develop into cancer.

The test is offered free on the NHS to:

• Women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 49 (every 3 years)
• Those aged 50 to 64 (every 5 years)

If you’re registered with a GP, you will automatically receive an invitation when it is time for your screening. You can also book an appointment at your GP surgery or local sexual health clinic.

What happens during the test?

A nurse or doctor will gently insert a small, soft brush to take a sample of cells from your cervix. The test usually takes no more than 5 minutes, although your whole appointment may last about 10 minutes. If you are feeling anxious about your smear test, you can ask for a female nurse, bring a friend or chaperone, or talk to your GP beforehand about any concerns.

The sample is tested for certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV), which are linked to most cases of cervical cancer.

• If no high-risk HPV is found, you will be invited for your next routine screening.
• If high-risk HPV is found, your sample will be checked for any abnormal cell changes.

If necessary, you’ll be referred for further tests such as a colposcopy (a closer examination of the cervix).

Understanding HPV

HPV is a very common infection with an estimated 8 out of 10 people to be infected at some point in their lives. The likelihood of having HPV increases with the number of sexual partners you have. It is passed on through close skin-to-skin contact of the genital area, not just penetrative sex. In most cases, the body naturally clears the infection. However, when high-risk types of HPV persist, they can cause abnormal cell changes that may lead to cervical cancer if not treated.

What are the symptoms of cervical cancer?

Being aware of the symptoms is another important factor in preventing cervical cancer. Cervical cancer may not cause any symptoms or the symptoms may not be obvious.

The most common symptoms of cervical cancer include:

• vaginal bleeding that is unusual for you, including after the menopause, after sex, or between regular periods
• changes to vaginal discharge
• pain or discomfort during sex
• unexplained pain in your lower back or between your hip bones (pelvis)
• decreased appetite
• unexplained weight loss

These symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, but it’s important to get them checked as soon as possible.

How can cervical cancer be prevented?

• Attend regular cervical screenings when invited.
• Get vaccinated against HPV. The HPV vaccine is routinely offered to girls and boys aged 12–13 in the UK, and helps protect against the most common high-risk strains.
• Avoid smoking, as it can make it harder for the body to clear HPV infections.
• Practise safer sex. Using condoms and limiting sexual partners can help reduce HPV transmission.

How can Cavendish Homecare help?

At Cavendish Homecare we are experts in providing cancer homecare services for clients who want to remain in their own homes. When it comes to your health and wellbeing, choosing the right homecare package is of utmost importance and navigating this process can be overwhelming. With Cavendish Homecare by your side, you’ll have the support you need to remain safely at home while enjoying elevated health and wellbeing.

If you would like to enquire about our homecare services, contact us on, 02030085210 or email us at info@cavendishhomecare.com.

Contact Us