| Cancer of the cervix is a common cancer found in women. When the tissues of the cervix—which is at the opening of the uterus—change, they can become cancer. The only way to find cervical cancer is to have a regular screening called a Pap test. During the Pap test, cells are brushed from the cervix and placed on a slide so they can be examined under a microscope to see if they are normal. Women who are 18 years of age or older should have routine Pap tests to be sure they don’t have cancer of the cervix. |
A new vaccine to prevent cervical cancer is now available to young women age 19 to 26. | An infection—called human papillomavirus (HPV)—is the main cause of cervical cancer. Now there is a vaccine that can be given to girls and young women before they become sexually active to prevent four types of the infection. The vaccine is given through a series of three shots over a six-month period. The second and third doses should be given two and six months after the first dose. The vaccine is free for young women age 19 to 26. |
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