Post at a Glance
This article covers the essential cervical health information every woman should know during Cervical Health Awareness Month, including:
- Why cervical health matters and the role the cervix plays in overall reproductive wellness
- The connection between HPV and cervical cancer
- Screening basics: Pap smears, HPV testing, and co-testing
- Recommended screening guidelines by age
- Key risk factors that increase cervical cancer risk
- Prevention strategies like vaccines, safe sex, and regular screenings
- Early symptoms you should never ignore
- How Your Family Medical supports women’s health in Benbrook, Bedford & Flower Mound, TX
Not only is January the start of the new year, but it’s also Cervical Health Awareness Month and it’s the perfect time to schedule any women’s health appointments in Benbrook, TX (women’s health clinics also in Bedford & Benbrook, TX) that you have been putting off. We know that life gets busy and there are things that come your way that you have no control over, but you do have control over making important visits to the doctor (even though we know that’s not at the top of your to do list.) Our team at Your Family Medical is here to help and go over everything you should know about screening, prevention, and early detection when it comes to cervical health.
Why Cervical Health Matters
Your cervix is the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. It may be small, but it plays a big role in:
- Menstrual flow
- Fertility and pregnancy
- Protecting your uterus from infections
According to the CDC, most cervical cancers are caused by high-risk HPV (human papillomavirus), a common virus spread through sexual contact.
Cervical Cancer Screening Basics
Screening is all about finding changes in cervical cells before they turn into cancer. Common screening tests include:
- Pap smear
- HPV test
- Co-testing
The CDC recommends this typical guideline for people with a cervix at average risk:
- Age 21–29– Pap test every 3 years if results are normal.
- Age 30–65– HPV test every 5 years, or Co-testing (Pap + HPV) every 5 years, or Pap test alone every 3 years.
- Age 65+– You may be able to stop screening if you’ve had a history of normal tests and no high-risk conditions, but this is something to decide with your doctor.
What Can Put Some at Higher Risk?
- Having HPV
- Smoking
- A weakened immune system
- Not having regular screenings
- Past abnormal Pap tests or cervical precancer
- Certain sexual health factors (multiple partners, unprotected sex
Prevention Tips
- Make sure to always stay up to date on screenings
- Ask your doctor about the HPV vaccine
- Support your immune system
- Practice safe sex
Signs & Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
Cervical changes don’t always cause symptoms, but if they do, you might notice:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding (between periods, after sex, or after menopause)
- Pain during sex
- Pelvic pain not tied to your normal cycle
- Unusual discharge with a strong odor or different color
Use Cervical Health Awareness Month as a Reset
January is a great time to get your screening scheduled and start the year feeling proactive. At Your Family Medical, our doctors for women in Benbrook, Bedford & Flower Mound, TX emphasize preventative care and ongoing relationships with our patients, making it easier to keep track of your screenings and overall wellness from year to year.
Ready to Schedule Your Next Checkup?
Cervical Health Awareness Month is a reminder that taking care of yourself doesn’t have to be complicated or scary. A short appointment can give you major peace of mind, and help catch problems early, when they’re easiest to treat. If you’re looking for doctors for women in Benbrook, Bedford or Flower Mound, our team at Your Family Medical is here to support you with compassionate, personalized care at every age and stage of life. We look forward to caring for you!
Bedford, TX:1305 Airport Fwy #302A Bedford, TX, 76021. P: 817-283-6995
Benbrook, TX: 9239 Vista Way, Benbrook, TX 76126. P: 682-224-6474
Flower Mound, TX: 4101 Kirkpatrick Ln. Flower Mound, TX 75028. P: 972-436-7531
