JANUARY - CERVICAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month — an important reminder to prioritise our health to start the year. It is largely preventable, and early detection through screening is one of the most effective tools we have.
What Is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer develops in the cervix. It usually develops slowly over time and is most often caused by long-term infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV).
HPV is extremely common, and most people will have it at some point in their lives. In most cases, the body clears it naturally. When it doesn’t, it can cause changes in cervical cells which, if left untreated, may develop into cancer.
Symptoms to Look Out For
Early cervical cancer often has no symptoms, which is why screening is so important. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Unusual bleeding
- Pain or discomfort during sex
- Unusual discharge
- Ongoing pelvic pain or lower back pain
For women in physically demanding or field-based roles, symptoms like back pain or fatigue can easily be put down to work. If something feels unusual or persistent for you, it’s important to get it checked.
Symptom diary
If you are unsure about symptoms you are experiencing, keep a diary and log:
- Date
- The symptom you are experiencing
- How you are feeling
- What you were doing at the time
Pop these details in a diary or your notes app, whichever is closest, and speak to your Doctor.
The Smear Test: What It Is and Why It Matters
What is it
I know, smear tests are not pleasant. However, they are our first port of call for preventing or catching cervical cancer early.
During the test, a small sample of cells is taken and checked for:
- High-risk types of HPV
- Cell changes that could develop into cervical cancer
The test itself usually takes only a few minutes. While it can feel uncomfortable, it shouldn’t be painful, and you are always in control — you can ask questions, request adjustments, or stop the test at any time.
Why It’s So Important
- It can detect changes before cancer develops
- Early treatment is highly effective
- Cervical screening has significantly reduced cervical cancer cases
Even if you feel well, have no symptoms, attending screening when invited is vital.
Support Available
If you’re worried, awaiting results, or supporting someone else, you don’t have to deal with it alone. Confidential support is available through trusted organisations:
- Cancer Research UK
Clear, reliable information on cervical cancer, screening, and treatment. - Macmillan Cancer Support
Emotional, practical, and financial support for people affected by cancer. - The Eve Appeal A leading gynaecological cancer charity that provides a nurse led information service. Go on the website and use Ask Eve.
You may also wish to explore internal workplace support such as Occupational Health, Employee Assistance Programmes, or speaking confidentially with a union rep.