What is Cervical Health and Why is it Important?
By: Dr. Hannah Lattanzio PT, DPT
January marks Cervical Health Awareness Month, an important time to raise awareness about cervical health and why it matters.
What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer develops in a woman’s cervix (the entrance to the uterus from the vagina). Nearly all (99%) of cervical cancer instances are linked to Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is commonly transmitted through sexual contact and most cases resolve spontaneously and without symptoms. A persistent HPV infection can cause cervical cancer.
About 13,000 women will be diagnosed with invasive cervical cancer annually. Cervical cancer is typically diagnosed in women between 35 and 44 with the average age of diagnosis being 50 and it rarely occurs in those younger than 20.
If diagnosed early, cervical cancer is one of the most successfully treatable forms of cancer. Cervical cancer screening typically begins at age 30 and is repeated periodically. Screening includes pap tests and HPV tests to find cell changes before they turn into cancer.
The HPV vaccine is given to girls 9-14 years of age and consists of 2 doses. Since its creation in the early 2000s, the incidence of cervical cancer has decreased significantly in vaccinated women - around 90%!
How Can My Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist Help?
Receiving a cervical cancer diagnosis can elicit a variety of emotions like confusion, fear, anger, grief, and many more. One may encounter a variety of medical providers throughout their cancer journey and an important member of an interdisciplinary team is a pelvic floor physical therapist.
Cervical and other gynecological cancers can affect pelvic organs, tissue, nerves and muscles during or after treatment. Treatment can include radiation therapy, chemotherapy and/or surgery. Any of these treatment methods can lead to muscle imbalances, soft tissue damage, and/or induce menopause. These associated changes can lead to pain, urinary, bowel and/or sexual dysfunction/pain with intercourse. Your pelvic floor therapist is trained to facilitate healing of affected structures to improve symptoms and quality of life.
Still have questions? Book a discovery call today to find out if pelvic floor therapy is right for you.
Resources
Find a mentor or support at Imerman Angels. “Through our unique matching process, Imerman Angels partners individuals seeking cancer support with a Mentor Angel – a fighter, survivor, previvor or caregiver – who has been in their shoes.”
National Cervical Cancer Coalition: “The National Cervical Cancer Coalition Support Community connects patients, families, friends and caregivers for support and inspiration. This community is sponsored by the National Cervical Cancer Coalition, an Inspire trusted partner.”
Free/Low Cost Pap Testing locations.
