Conditions

Cervical screening helps identify human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and abnormal cervical cell changes that may require monitoring or further evaluation.

• High-Risk HPV Infection

• Abnormal Cervical Cells

• Cervical Precancerous Changes

• Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN)

• Early-Stage Cervical Cancer

Symptoms

Cervical cancer and precancerous changes may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Screening is therefore important even when a woman feels healthy.

• Unusual vaginal bleeding, especially after intercourse

• Bleeding between menstrual periods

• Bleeding after menopause

• Unusual or persistent vaginal discharge

• Pelvic pain or pain during sexual intercourse

Causes

Most cervical cancers are associated with persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Several factors can increase the risk of persistent HPV infection or cervical cancer.

• Persistent infection with high-risk HPV types

• Weakened immune system

• Smoking or tobacco exposure

• History of certain sexually transmitted infections

• Lack of regular cervical screening

• Previous abnormal cervical screening results

Treatment

Screening is primarily used for prevention and early detection rather than treatment. If screening identifies abnormal results, additional evaluation may be recommended to determine the appropriate management.

Depending on the findings, follow-up may include repeat screening, HPV testing, colposcopy, cervical biopsy, or treatment of precancerous changes.

• HPV Testing

• Pap Smear / Pap Test

• Co-testing with HPV and Pap Test when recommended

• Colposcopy for selected abnormal results

• Cervical Biopsy when required

Benefits

• Helps detect cervical precancerous changes early

• Can identify high-risk HPV infection

• Supports timely evaluation and treatment of abnormal findings

• May reduce the risk of developing advanced cervical cancer

• Provides an important preventive health check for eligible women

Prevention

Cervical cancer can often be prevented through HPV vaccination, regular screening, and timely management of abnormal cervical changes.

• Follow recommended cervical cancer screening schedules

• Consider HPV vaccination as recommended by a healthcare professional

• Avoid smoking and tobacco products

• Practice safer sexual health habits

• Attend follow-up appointments after an abnormal screening result

• Report unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge to a gynaecologist

Why Cervical Cancer Screening?

• Helps identify cervical abnormalities before they become cancerous.

• Allows high-risk HPV infection and abnormal cells to be detected early.

• Supports timely follow-up and treatment when abnormalities are found.

• Regular screening is an important part of preventive women's healthcare.