Early stages of cervical cancer do not exhibit noticeable symptoms. Therefore, it is crucial for women to undergo regular cervical screening to facilitate early detection and treatment. As cancer develops, patients may experience the following symptoms:

• Irregular vaginal bleeding: includes bleeding between periods,  during or after sexual intercourse, or after menopause
• Unusual vaginal discharge: increased or thickened discharge, foul-smelling or bloodstained
• Pelvic pain: experience pain in lower back, pelvis, lower abdomen or during sexual intercourse
• Frequent urination, constipation or dysuria: terminal stages of cervical cancer may exert pressure on surrounding tissues, leading to frequent urination, constipation, or dysuria
• Weight loss: cancer cells consume the body’s nutrients, which can result in weight loss

• Individuals with persistent HPV infection (especially HPV16 and 18), which increases the chances of cervical abnormalities.
• Women with sexual experience, particularly those who engaged in sexual activity at an early age or have a history of sexually transmitted infections. Additionally, the risk of developing cancer is correlated with the number of sexual partner.
• Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with chronic kidney disease, HIV/AIDS, or other immune system disorders.
• Smokers.

• Women aged 25 to 29 with sexual experience: it is recommended to have a cervical screening every two years
• Women aged 30 and above: if the results of two consecutive annual cervical cytology tests are normal, then screening can be done every 3 years

Yes.  HPV vaccine does not provide protection against all types of HPV, there may also be no symptoms when infected. If the infection persists, it may lead to related diseases. Therefore, it is still necessary to undergo regular screenings even if you got the HPV vaccine.

Avoid sexual intercourse, douching, or using any vaginal medications or spermicidal foams, creams, or jellies 2 days before your cervical exam, as these may wash away or mask abnormal cells. Avoid scheduling a cervical screening during your menstrual period.

You shall not feel any pain during the test if  you stay relaxed. Some may experience mild discomfort, and in such cases, taking slow deep breaths can help alleviate it. If you feel extremely uncomfortable during a Pap Smear test, you can inform the doctor or nurse and request to stop.

In addition to undergoing regular gynecological examinations and cervical cell tests, doctors may recommend relevant breast examinations based on an individual woman’s risk of developing breast cancer. These examinations may include mammography and ultrasound of the breasts. For older women, especially after menopause, or women with a thin body type, bone density tests (such as a DEXA scan) are also recommended.