January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

L.A. Care wants to remind all women that it's important to take time out of your busy schedules to care for your health.

One thing to do if you are between the ages of 21 to 64 is get a regular Pap test. This test screens for cervical cancer and should be done every three years. 

What is Cervical Cancer?

93 percent of cervical cancers

Cervical cancer is cancer of the cervix. The cervix is the part of the uterus (womb) that opens into the vagina. The best way to protect yourself from cervical cancer is to get regular Pap tests.

What is a Pap Test?

A Pap test helps find changes in the cervix that may lead to cancer. This test is easily done in your doctor's office. Your doctor will take a small sample of cells from your cervix. These cells are then sent to a lab.

Pap tests are safe and only take a few minutes. Finding cervix cell changes early with a Pap test can save your life. Cervical cancer is rare in women who get regular screening tests.

Three generations of women smile into the camera

Make Time for Pap Tests

The Pap Test and HPV Test can help prevent cervical cancer and find problems early when they are easier to treat.

  • Women ages 21-64: You need a Pap Test every 3 years.
  • Women ages 30-64: You can get tested every 5 years if you get both a Pap Test and HPV test.
  • Most women over age 65 do not need screening.

No referral is needed. 

  • Go to your doctor if he/she does Pap tests  OR
  • Go to any OB/GYN in the Medical Group listed on your I.D. Card.

To find an OB/GYN specialist in your assigned Medical Group, go to the L.A. Care Online Provider Directory

Don't forget to keep your appointment!

What is HPV?

Most cervical cancers are caused by a virus called HPV. HPV stands for human papillomavirus. HPV is a group of viruses that spread through sexual contact. HPV can cause changes in the cervix that may become cancer. Testing for cervical cancer can find these changes early and prevent them from becoming cancer.

What is an HPV Test?

An HPV test looks for the types of HPV most likely to cause cervical cancer. The HPV test is similar to a Pap test and can be done at the same time.

How can I protect my daughter from cervical cancer?

Make sure your daughter gets the HPV vaccine between 11-12 years of age. The HPV vaccine is safe and helps prevent HPV infections that can cause cervical cancer. Do what you can now to protect your daughter's future.

Call your doctor to find out how you can schedule your Pap appointment today. No referral is needed for a Pap. Your loved ones will thank you for taking care of your health.