What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is the second leading cancer that affects Filipino women, with seven Filipinas dying every day because of it.
This disease is strongly linked to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), an infection that is mainly spread through sexual activity. While there are a number of strains of HPV, only two types are known to cause cervical cancer: HPV-16 and HPV-18. While HPV and cervical cancer are contracted from sexual activity, abstinence does not exempt you from it. There are other risk factors involved when contracting this infection and disease. This includes tobacco smoking, parity (number of babies born), and your family history.
Cervical Cancer Prevention, Is it Possible?
In most cases, HPV infection and cervical cancer do not develop symptoms, making it highly undetectable. This is why doctors are advising prevention to avoid getting infected and eventually getting cervical cancer. While early detection and prevention is great, avoiding cervical cancer starts with you. Practicing good genital hygiene is an easy way to avoid contracting HPV infection and cervical cancer. Cleaning your genital area is simple and easy, and it should be practiced by every woman, sexually active or not. This process involves thoroughly cleaning all the parts of your perineal area: the vulva (clitoris, clitoris hood, and the inner and outer lips of the vagina) and the anal area.
Good genital hygiene is essential in preventing the development of HPV infection and cervical cancer.
Good Feminine Hygiene is Key
Cleaning the vulva is not as complicated as you might think. The best and easiest way to clean this area is by using warm water only. Thorough cleaning of the vulva and the perineal area using soap, feminine wash, sprays, or anything scented actually does more harm than good to your body. Using these products to clean only introduces harsh chemicals that cause a disturbance in the natural flora of the area. This makes your body more prone to developing infections and diseases.
It is also not advisable to clean the perineal area frequently as it strips off the necessary bacteria that keep it healthy. Washing your vulva once a day during your normal bathing routine should be sufficient to keep it clean.
Cleaning the vagina (the inner canal of your body) is also not preferable as this part of the body is designed to keep itself clean and healthy through vaginal secretions. The vagina can maintain its pH balance without the need for chemicals and other substances. If the bacterial balance of the vagina is disturbed, it will lead to infection, inflammation, and other diseases.
Cancer Prevention for Every Filipina
This is just the basics of preventing cervical cancer. The best way is still to get vaccinated and to have regular check-ups for any infections or irregularities. Tests like Pap smear and HPV testing help identify any abnormal cells or any infection forming in your genitals. Early detection allows these complications to be treated before they develop into cancer. ManilaMed houses an excellent center that focuses exclusively on women’s health. Complete with state-of-the-art facilities and outstanding experts, you are sure that you are getting the best services to keep you healthy. For consultation to any of our OB-Gynecologists, call us at 5238131-65. To schedule a diagnostic procedure please call Center for Women’s Health at 5238131-65 local. 3100/3101.
