Cervical Cancer Awareness Month is a time to spotlight prevention, early detection, and equitable access to care. It’s one of the most preventable cancers, and when identified early, it’s highly treatable
With advances in vaccines and screenings, cervical cancer rates in the U.S. have declined significantly over the past several decades. But even so, thousands of people are still diagnosed each year, making awareness and education more important than ever. Here’s what everyone should know to lower their risk:
Cervical Cancer Is Largely Preventable
99% of cases of cervical cancer are caused by certain high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a very common virus transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact. Most people will encounter HPV at some point in their lives, often without symptoms, and the body frequently clears the virus on its own.
For long-term protection, HPV vaccination is one of the most powerful prevention tools we have. The HPV vaccine used in the U.S. today protects against multiple high-risk HPV strains linked to cervical and other cancers.
The vaccine is approved for people ages 9 through 45, with routine recommendations to begin around ages 11–12, before exposure to the virus. Research continues to show dramatic drops in cervical cancer rates among younger generations who were vaccinated.
Why Screening Still Matters, Even If You’re Vaccinated
HPV vaccination is a powerful tool for preventing cervical cancer, but it doesn’t replace the need for regular screening. Cervical cancer typically develops slowly and often starts with subtle, precancerous changes in cervical cells. Screening allows these changes to be identified and treated early.
The most common screening methods include the Pap test, which looks for abnormal cervical cells, as well as HPV testing, which checks for high-risk strains. Advances in medical technology are also expanding access to care, with newly approved self-collection screening options helping reduce barriers for people who may have difficulty accessing traditional in-office exams.
General screening guidelines recommend that individuals begin cervical cancer screening at age 21, with Pap tests typically performed every three years through the late twenties. From ages 30 to 65, screening may involve a Pap test every three years, HPV testing every five years, or a combination of both at five-year intervals, depending on personal health history and provider recommendations. Although many people are told they can stop screening after age 65 if they’ve had consistently normal results, emerging research suggests it’s important to continue conversations with a healthcare provider. Cervical cancer diagnosed later in life is more likely to be detected at an advanced stage, making individualized guidance especially important.
Supporting Vaginal Health During and After Cancer Treatment
If you or someone you love is navigating cancer treatment or recovery, vaginal and vulvar health can be an important yet often overlooked part of healing. Treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and hormone therapy can disrupt the vaginal microbiome, lower natural moisture, and leave tissue more sensitive.
Our Bio-Match® formulas are created to align with the body’s natural pH and moisture levels, helping protect delicate tissue while supporting an environment that favors beneficial Lactobacillus bacteria that are essential for a healthy vaginal microbiome.
Balance Moisturizing Wash, with organic aloe and our proprietary lactic acid blend,helps soothe sensitive tissue that may feel inflamed after radiation.Rehydrate Ultra Moisturizing Gel helps restore hydration and comfort, and is made with hyaluronic acid, which is clinically shown to relieve dryness and urinary discomfort after breast cancer treatment. For fast-acting relief from irritation, itch, and vulvovaginal pain, Relief Vaginal Itch & Pain Gel, containing 4% lidocaine, provides gentle support for fragile tissue.
While no product can replace medical care, thoughtfully formulated vaginal health products can help manage persistent symptoms, support recovery, and improve everyday comfort.
The Future of Cervical Cancer Care
Ongoing research continues to move us closer to a future where cervical cancer is increasingly rare, or even eliminated. Advances in HPV vaccination, including simplified dosing, new therapeutic vaccines, and expanded access to screening and care are changing what’s possible. Staying up to date on screenings, learning about prevention, and having open conversations with healthcare providers are all meaningful steps you can take to lower your risk. At Good Clean Love, we believe sexual health is whole-body health, and informed choices help protect it for life.
Sources: AACR, ‘Cervical Cancer Awareness.’
