Empower Your Health: Cervical Cancer Prevention Week 2024 - 22nd-28th January

Jan 11, 2024 Women's Health OTC

 

Cervical Cancer Prevention Week in the UK takes place from January 22nd to the 28th. This is an important time to raise awareness about the importance of cervical health and preventive measures. At Simply Meds Online, we are dedicated to promoting well-being and ensuring that individuals are equipped with the knowledge to safeguard their health. In this blog post, we will discuss essential aspects of cervical health, when to seek professional advice and provide valuable resources to help you boost your knowledge during Cervical Cancer Prevention Week and beyond.

 

Looking After Vaginal and Cervical Health

 

Being proactive when it comes to your vaginal and cervical health is essential when it comes to preventing or dealing with cervical cancer. Regular cervical screening, also known as a smear test, is a fundamental aspect of this. The test helps detect abnormal cells early on, providing an opportunity for intervention before they develop into cancer. 

Please ensure that you attend your cervical screening appointments as advised by your healthcare provider. Most women attend every three years unless advised otherwise. The test doesn’t take very long at all and those doing them have seen it all before and are happy to talk you through the process. That short appointment can offer you unbeatable peace of mind. 

As well as attending your cervical smear tests, practising safe sex and maintaining good hygiene habits will contribute to overall vaginal health. Using barrier methods, such as condoms, can reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that may also contribute to cervical cancer when women also have the HPV strain. While for many people HPV or Human Papillomavirus, can be common and not cause issues, it presents a high risk to women when present in the vaginal/cervical area. This is part of what healthcare providers will check for when doing your cervical smear.

 

When to See a GP or Visit Your Sexual Health Clinic

 

It's essential to know when to seek professional advice regarding your reproductive health.

Sexual health clinics are valuable resources that provide confidential advice, testing, and treatment for STIs. If you have concerns about your sexual health or need information on contraception, sexual health clinics are readily available to help. Visit the NHS sexual health services website to find a clinic near you.

Understanding the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer is crucial for early detection and effective treatment. If you experience any of the following please get advice from a professional such as your GP:

 

1. Abnormal bleeding, especially between periods or after menopause.
2. Unusual discharge that may be foul-smelling.
3. Pain during intercourse.
4. Persistent pelvic pain not associated with menstruation.

 

Sexual Health Products at Simply Meds Online

The Simply Meds Online sexual health product range offers products from trusted brands and suppliers, helping you get the most out of your more intimate times while remaining safe. Condoms, for example, can prevent pregnancy and also the risk of contracting an STI. This in turn helps to reduce the risk of cervical cancer. Our sexual health range is constantly growing as we source products and treatments that our customers can rely on and all prescriptions, over-the-counter medications and other pharmacy shop items are sent discreetly to the address of your choice.

 

Helpline and Additional Resources for Cervical Cancer Prevention

If you have questions or concerns about cervical health, contact the Cervical Cancer Prevention Week Helpline at 0808 802 8000. This helpline offers support and information to those seeking guidance during this important awareness week.

For comprehensive resources and information, visit Macmillan's dedicated page on cervical screening awareness.

Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust is another valuable resource, offering information, support, and resources.

The more you know about your body and your health the easier it is to be proactive in protecting them.

 

Cervical Cancer Prevention Week -  In Conclusion

During Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, prioritise your reproductive health by staying informed and taking proactive steps. Regular cervical screenings, open communication with healthcare professionals, and awareness of potential symptoms are key to preventing and detecting cervical cancer early. Having access to the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about your health is essential so please share this blog post with your network and signpost anyone to the resources above where appropriate.