Cervical Cancer, Cervical Smear, Pap Smear, HPV & Genital Warts

HPV AND CERVICAL CANCER

HPV stands for Human Papilloma Virus. HPV is sexually transmitted and is very common. It is estimated that roughly 40% of sexually active people have the HPV virus. There are over 100 types or strains of HPV though only some are known to lead to changes in the cervix that cause cancer. Unfortunately, there is no cure for HPV. However, the symptoms of HPV which include genital warts and cervical changes can be treated. The tragic death of Jade Goody is a powerful reminder of the risks posed by Cervical Cancer and HPV. If you have symptoms of HPV,such as genital warts, or are sexually active you should get tested regularly.

HPV AND CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING

The purpose of HPV and Cervical screening is to detect changes to the cells in the cervix before they become cancerous. Testing is done through a cervical smear (also known as a "pap smear") which your doctor will carry out. The results are available within days. If the results are abnormal, your doctor may recommend a colposcopy, which is a procedure whereby abnormal cells are removed from the cervix. If you are sexually active, you should get a pap smear regularly, which you can do sameday at our clinics nationwide. The NHS does not provide cervical testing or vaccination to women under 25, though this is being reviewed following the death of Jade Goody. At Better2Know, you or your daughter can be tested from an early age.

The cost is £160 for a cervical smear and your results are typically available within 3 days.

HPV VACCINE IMMUNIZATION

The HPV Vaccine protects against certain types of HPV which cause cervical cancer. There are two vaccines available today which are called Gardasil and Cervarix and are considered 99% effective against the strains of HPV which cause cervical cancer. The vaccines last for approximately six years. Women between 20 to 40 years old should be screened regularly and consider getting the HPV vaccine. The vaccines are also effective in men, though their use for men has not yet been officially approved.

The vaccination is given in three doses (injection) over 6 months and the cost is £160 per dose.

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