Cervical cancer is almost entirely preventable. Screening tests like HPV self-collection can find HPV early, before it can cause cancer.
What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is cancer in the cervix. The cervix is a body part that connects the uterus (womb) to the vagina (genital opening). Cervical cancer is almost always caused by human papillomavirus (HPV).
There are more than 100 types of HPV. HPV is a common virus that will often go away on its own without doing any harm, but some types of HPV can cause cell changes that may turn into cervical cancer over time if they are not treated. Cervical screening checks for types of HPV that can sometimes cause cervical cancer, so getting regular cervical screening can help you avoid getting cervical cancer.
Why should I get screened?
Screening is the only way to find the early changes that might lead to cervical cancer. Getting screened regularly is important because it can find abnormal cells that could become cancer (called pre-cancers). Finding pre-cancers and treating them can prevent you from getting cancer.
What are my options for cervical screening?
You have two cervical screening options:
- Health care provider-collected: A health care provider places an instrument, called a speculum, into your vagina to help them see your cervix. They will use a small, soft brush to collect cells from your cervix. This test checks for types of HPV that can cause cervical cancer. If you have HPV, your sample is automatically checked for changes on your cervix.
- Self-collected: You insert a swab into your vagina and turn the swab for 20 seconds. Place the swab in the provided tube and return it to your provider. This test checks for types of HPV that can cause cervical cancer. Most people (up to 95%) don’t have HPV, but if you do, you will need to return for a healthcare provider-collected sample so that they can look for changes on your cervix
Research shows that both options are safe and accurate.
Why do some people choose the self-collected options?
- They feel more comfortable collecting their own sample.
- They find self-collection more convenient.
- They feel more in control or empowered when they collect their own sample.
Why do some people choose the health care provider-collected options?
- They feel more comfortable with their health care provider doing an exam.
- The health care provider-collection process is familiar.
- They feel reassured that their health care provider is doing the collection.
Am I eligible for screening?
Anyone with a cervix aged 25-70 who has ever been sexually active* should be screened for cervical cancer:
- every 5 years (provider-collected option)
- every 3 years (self-collected option)
Talk to a health care provider at your local health clinic to find out which test is right for you.
*Sexual activity is defined as any sexual contact with another person’s genitals (private parts). This contact can be with the hands, mouth or genitals, and includes the sharing of sex toys.
Where can I get screened for cervical cancer?
Contact your local health clinic to learn more or to book an appointment.
Still have questions? Contact our prevention specialist to learn more about screening at prevention.specialist@waha.ca
For additional information visit: Cancer Care Ontario