Busting 10 Common Myths About Cervical Cancer

Dr.Parminder Kaur, 3 mins read

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally and one of the leading causes of mortality in females due to gynaecological cancer. This is not the only concern. The real problem lies in the myths and misconceptions that have surrounded us like a bubble. In this guide, we’re going to discuss some common myths of cervical cancer along with their facts so you know what’s right and what’s wrong.

Myth 1: Cervical cancer screening is painful.
Fact: Screening plays an important role to check the health of the cervix and see any abnormal changes before they turn into cancer. Some women may experience slight discomfort during screening, but it is not painful for most people. The instruments used for cervical cancer screening are the same as those used in other gynaecological exams and don’t affect any reproductive part. It’s good to choose an experienced doctor to smoothly navigate the screening process.

Myth 2: It cannot be prevented.
Fact: No. Cervical cancer is highly preventable and curable if detected at an early stage. Therefore, get yourself screened periodically or as prescribed by your doctor and take HPV vaccines to prevent cervical cancer.

Myth 3: Screening is not required for those who are vaccinated.
Fact: The HPV vaccine provides prevention against the most common types of HPV (human papillomavirus) infection that can cause cervical cancer. However, some women develop cervical cancer caused by a type of HPV not targeted by the vaccine. Thus, it’s important for you to get periodically screened for cervical cancer so any abnormality can be found at an early stage.

Myth 4: Only women with multiple sexual partners get cervical cancer.
Fact: While having multiple sexual partners can increase the risk of HPV infection, those with stable relationships may also get the HPV infection.

Myth 5: HPV vaccination can prevent all gynae cancers.
Fact: HPV vaccine can prevent over 90% of cancers caused by HPV infection like cervical, vulva and vaginal cancers. It also protects against precancers (abnormal cells) that can later turn into cancer. However, the HPV vaccine does not protect against all gynaecological cancers.

Myth 6: Cervical cancer survivors can not get pregnant.
Fact: The risk of infertility depends on multiple factors like type and extent of treatment and age of the patient. Hysterectomy and radiotherapy are a few types of treatment that can affect fertility. Fertility-sparing surgeries, e.g., consolation or radical trachelectomy, in very early stages can preserve fertility. Discuss with your doctor first about the effect of treatment on fertility before undergoing the treatment.

Myth 7: Cervical cancers can not be treated.
Fact: Cervical cancer is generally seen as a curable and treatable disease, especially if diagnosed at an early stage. The treatment is also available for advanced-stage cancers for good disease control.

Myth 8: Older women don’t need screening.
Fact: Those over 65 years of age with three normal Pap tests in a row or two normal Pap/HPV co-tests in the past 10 years can consult with their healthcare provider about whether they should continue periodic screening or not.

Myth 9: Cervical cancer spreads by taking a biopsy.
Fact: No. Biopsy is a very effective procedure to detect cancer. It involves taking a small tissue from the suspicious and affected part of the body to check for cancerous cells.

Myth 10: Cervical cancer is a contagious disease.
Fact: Cancer is not a contagious disease and cannot be transmitted through close contact like touching, kissing or sharing meals. However, it can be transmitted through sexual contact. So, it’s best to use preventive measures during sexual contact.

Don’t let any myth affect your decision. Contact our experts to get answers to all your questions and doubts.