Caring for Your Cervix: What Every Woman Should Know
January is Cervical Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating individuals about cervical health, prevention, and the importance of routine screenings. At Culver Primary, we believe that informed patients are empowered patients. Direct primary care plays a critical role in prevention and early detection. We want you to have the clarity, comfort, and access you need to protect your health and that starts with understanding why cervical screenings matter more than ever.
About the Cervix
The cervix is the lowest part of the uterus and connects the vagina to the uterus. It is about 2 inches long and tubular in shape. The cervix widens during childbirth to allow the passage of the baby. Menstrual fluid also passes through the cervix from the uterus.
Causes and Risk Factors of Cervical Cancer:
Most cervical cancers are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), a very common sexually transmitted infection. In many cases, HPV causes no symptoms and clears on its own, but certain high-risk types can lead to cervical cell changes over time. Other factors, such as smoking, can increase the risk of developing cervical cancer.
Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Cancer:
Cervical cancer or precancerous changes (called dysplasia) may not produce any symptoms in its earliest stage. It is important to have regular screenings.
The common signs and symptoms of cervical cancer, include:
Bleeding after intercourse
Pelvic pain
Pain with sexual intercourse
Abnormal vaginal discharge, bleeding or odor
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your provider at Culver Primary.
Cervical Cancer screening:
Screening for cervical cancer may include:
Regular pelvic exams with your provider.
Pap smears which look for cell changes on the cervix that may become cancerous if not treated properly.
HPV testing which looks for the human papillomavirus that can cause these cell changes.
When Should You be Screened?
Routine cervical cancer screening remains one of the most effective tools for early detection. A pap smear identifies abnormal cellular changes in the cervix, while HPV testing detects high-risk strains of human papillomavirus known to cause most cervical cancers.
The USPSTF and ACOG (American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology) recommend the following general cervical cancer screening guidelines:
Ages 21–29: Begin pap smear testing at age 21. If results are normal, screening is usually repeated every 3 years.
Ages 30–65: Screening options may include a pap test, an HPV test, or both.
Normal pap test: repeat every 3 years.
Normal pap and HPV tests together: repeat every 5 years.
After 65: Screening may be discontinued if prior results have been consistently normal.
But screening recommendations may vary based on personal health history, risk factors, or previous results. Your primary care provider, here at Culver Primary, can help determine the best plan for you.
HPV Vaccine: What You should Know
The HPV vaccine helps protect against the types of HPV most commonly linked to cervical cancer and other cancers. It is approved for individuals ages 9 through 45. Vaccination is most effective when given before exposure to HPV, but many teens and adults can still benefit. The HPV vaccine is approved for both men and women. Talk with your provider about whether the vaccine is right for you or your family.
Tips for Staying on Top of Your Cervical Health:
Schedule regular checkups with primary care provider.
Eat a healthy, balanced diet, including vegetables.
Schedule routine pap smear tests and HPV screenings.
Get the HPV vaccine at your local pharmacy.
Know your family history and share your history with your primary care provider.
Practice safer sex to lower your risk of HPV.
Avoid smoking, which increases cervical cancer risk.
How Culver Primary Makes Cervical Care Easier, Kinder, and More Accessible
Culver Primary is a relationship-centered direct primary care practice, which means we build care around you, not the system. Our approach includes:
Appointments when you need them.
Longer visits without rushing for all your questions.
Transparent, upfront costs.
A care team who actually knows you.
Culver Primary creates an environment grounded in comfort, compassion, and consent, so you can take care of your health in a place that feels safe.
Cervical cancer is highly preventable with early detection. Staying up to date on recommended screenings and addressing risk factors plays a key role in protecting your long-term health.
Need Guidance?
Whether you’re due for a cervical screening or looking for a primary care practice that puts prevention first, Culver Primary is here to support you. Schedule your pap or HPV screening online, learn your personal risk factors, and get your questions answered with a care team you can trust.
Keywords: HPV screening, pap test, HPV test, cervical cancer, cervical health awareness, women’s health.
