Authored by Elena Poloukhine, MD, FACOG
Medical Director of OB/GYN

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and it’s a good reminder of the vital role that preventive care and education play in protecting women’s health. Cervical cancer is largely linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV), a widespread virus that most people encounter at some point in their lives. Although most HPV infections clear up on their own, some can persist, potentially leading to cervical cancer over time.

Advances in screening and vaccination have dramatically reduced cervical cancer rates in recent decades. In the United States, approximately 13,000 new cases are diagnosed annually, and nearly 4,000 women die from the disease. These numbers, while still significant, represent considerable progress thanks to tools like Pap smears and the HPV vaccine.

Doctor’s Advice: Get Screened

Screening for cervical cancer typically begins at age 21. For women ages 21 to 29, a Pap smear is recommended every three years to check for abnormal cells. From ages 30 to 65, screenings expand to include HPV testing alongside Pap smears, with intervals based on individual results and risk factors. Screening is a straightforward process performed during a routine office visit. It involves a brief pelvic exam to collect a small sample from the cervix, and while it may cause minor discomfort, it is not painful.  

Vaccination is another key preventive measure. The HPV vaccine is highly effective, protecting against the virus strains most likely to cause cervical cancer. The vaccine is ideally administered between ages 9 and 11, but it remains beneficial for individuals up to age 45. Increasing vaccination rates has the potential to significantly reduce new cases of cervical cancer worldwide.  

What Can I Do to Prevent Cervical Cancer?

Lifestyle choices also play a role in reducing risk. Avoiding smoking, and practicing safe sex can help lower the likelihood of HPV-related complications. For those who are immunocompromised or managing other health conditions, regular monitoring becomes even more important.  

Preventive care is accessible and almost always covered by insurance, including Medicaid. At Day Kimball Health, we ensure patients have access to the screenings and resources they need to stay healthy. The important thing to remember is that early detection is key – it can save your life. Most cervical cancer cases occur in women who haven’t been screened in five to 10 years.  

Staying proactive about health means scheduling regular screenings and considering vaccination for yourself and your children. With these tools, we can continue to reduce cervical cancer rates and improve outcomes for women everywhere.

Dr. Elena Poloukhine is the Medical Director of OB/GYN at Day Kimball Health in Putnam, Connecticut. To learn more about Women's Health Services at Day Kimball Health, visit daykimball.org/women.