Screen Time for Your Health: Understanding Cervical Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer is preventable. Here's what you need to know. Most cervical cancers are found in women who aren't getting their screenings as often as recommended or haven't had their screenings at all. Routine screening through a pap test, HPV test, or both can help prevent cervical cancer or find it early when it is easier to treat. Both tests can be done in a doctor's office or health clinic. A pap test looks for precancers or cell changes on the cervix that might become cancer if they aren't treated. An HPV test looks for the virus that can cause cervical cancer. Your doctor can explain how often you should be screened based on which test is used and your results. If your test results are abnormal or unclear, it doesn't mean you have cancer. Most abnormal results won't be cancer, but it's important to follow up with your doctor and ask what your next step should be. Ask your doctor if it's time for you to get screened for cervical cancer. [Music]