The most important thing you can do to help prevent cervical cancer is to have regular screening tests starting at age 21.
Two screening tests can help prevent cervical cancer or find it early—
The Pap test (or Pap smear) looks for precancers, cell changes on the cervix that might become cervical cancer if they are not treated appropriately.
The HPV test looks for the virus (human papillomavirus) that can cause these cell changes.
These things may also help lower your risk for cervical cancer—
- Don’t smoke.
- Use condoms during sex.*
- Limit your number of sexual partners.
*HPV infection can occur in both male and female genital areas that are covered or protected by a latex condom, as well as in areas that are not covered. While the effect of condoms in preventing HPV infection is unknown, condom use has been associated with a lower rate of cervical cancer.
Two screening tests can help prevent cervical cancer or find it early—
- The Pap test (or Pap smear) looks for precancers, cell changes on the cervix that might become cervical cancer if they are not treated appropriately.
- The HPV test looks for the virus (human papillomavirus) that can cause these cell changes.
Both tests can be done in a doctor’s office or clinic. During the Pap test, the doctor will use a plastic or metal instrument, called a speculum, to widen your vagina. This helps the doctor examine the vagina and the cervix, and collect a few cells and mucus from the cervix and the area around it. The cells are sent to a laboratory.
- If you are getting a Pap test, the cells will be checked to see if they look normal.
- If you are getting an HPV test, the cells will be tested for HPV.
If You Are 21 to 29 Years Old
You should start getting Pap tests at age 21. If your Pap test result is normal, your doctor may tell you that you can wait three years until your next Pap test.
If You Are 30 to 65 Years Old
Talk to your doctor about which testing option is right for you—
- A Pap test only. If your result is normal, your doctor may tell you that you can wait three years until your next Pap test.
- An HPV test only. This is called primary HPV testing. If your result is normal, your doctor may tell you that you can wait five years until your next screening test.
- An HPV test along with the Pap test. This is called co-testing. If both of your results are normal, your doctor may tell you that you can wait five years until your next screening test.
If You Are Older Than 65
Your doctor may tell you that you don’t need to be screened anymore if—
- You have had normal screening test results for several years, or
- You have had your cervix removed as part of a total hysterectomy for non-cancerous conditions, like fibroids.
The onsite Health and Wellness Centers (MyHealthOnsite) can help you complete your annual women's health screening. Click here to make an appointment or call 1-888-644-1448.
Pasco County Schools offers incentives for covered employees and retirees who complete their annual Vital Health Profile. This program is voluntary; however, participants must follow the steps outlined here in order to qualify for the 2020 incentive.
Don't forget to use your funds to avoid fees! Click here to learn more.
Pascofit Incentives earned during the 4th quarter of the 2019 HWI Program (October 1 - December 31) are scheduled to be paid out February 15.
Click here for more information.
The first quarter for the 2020 HWI is January 1 - March 31.
Monthly Challenge: Rest
·Practice a ritual before bed. Habits can help you relax to avoid nightly worry that everything is done.
·Avoid caffeine late in the day, large meals before bed, or alcohol before going to bed.
·Turn off electronic devices. Read a book before bed instead of reading on your phone. Reading printed text before bed can help make your eyes tired allowing you to go to sleep more easily.
·Exercise regularly, early in the day. Habitual exercise can help your body more regularly relax at night.
