January is Cervical Health Awareness Month, which emphasises the importance of maintaining a healthy cervix through regular screenings and vaccination against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). These measures also help reduce the risk of cervical cancer by 93%, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
While the risk of cervical cancer is comparatively low in pregnant women, maintaining a healthy cervix is still important for both the mother and the child, said Dr Shweta Mendiratta, Senior Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad. Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, the doctor shared a few tips that can help.
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Maintaining A Healthy Cervix For A Healthy Pregnancy
Dr Mendiratta said, “Maintaining a healthy cervix is vital, especially at some point in pregnancy, as it plays an important role in supporting a woman's reproductive health.”
According to the doctor, the cervix acts as a gateway between the uterus and the vagina, and any complications can have huge consequences.
She added, “During pregnancy, a healthy cervix helps to keep the developing baby safe and secure in the uterus. However, if the cervix is not in good condition, it may lead to complications such as pre-birth or miscarriage. Regular check-ups are important to detect any issues.”
Regular Pap Smear Is Key
In general, regular screening helps in the early detection of chronic conditions. A Pap smear, also known as a Pap test, is a screening tool for cervical cancer that helps detect any abnormal changes in the cervix early on, allowing timely intervention, said Dr Mendiratta.
Over 95% of the time, people who are treated for precancerous cells do not develop cervical cancer, as per the Cleveland Clinic.
Importance Of HPV Testing And Vaccination
HPV is a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) that causes about 5% of all cancers worldwide, with an estimated 6,25,600 women and 69,400 men getting HPV-related cancer each year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). There are more than 200 types of HPVs, most of which are harmless, but some can lead to genital warts or cancer. Regular testing can help aid in the early detection of HPV, enabling prompt management. As per the WHO, women should be screened every 5–10 years, starting at age 30.
Additionally, Dr Mendiratta emphasises the importance of getting an HPV vaccination, as it protects against infections that may pose risks during pregnancy, contributing to a healthier cervix. HPV vaccines are recommended for all girls aged 9–14 years before they become sexually active.
Also Read: HPV Vaccination: When Is The Right Time to Get Yourself Vaccinated?
Role Of Healthy Lifestyle
Apart from regular screenings and vaccinations, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrients, daily exercise, and sufficient relaxation is also important for cervical health, particularly in pregnant women.
“A well-nourished body is better equipped to handle the demands of pregnancy and supports overall reproductive health,” said Dr Mendiratt, adding that by prioritising these steps, one not only contributes to a healthy cervix but also enhances their overall well-being.
Conclusion
During pregnancy, it is important to take all necessary measures to ensure a healthy childbirth. Physiologically, the cervix plays a crucial role in determining that. It is what shields the unborn baby from unpredictable dangers and is therefore sometimes called the “neck of the uterus.” Maintaining a healthy cervix includes regular screenings, prenatal care, vaccinations, and a healthy lifestyle. An incompetent cervix during one pregnancy can put you at risk of premature birth or pregnancy loss in later pregnancies.