GP focus with Dr Arun Thimmiah

Our GPs are an important part of Bay Health Care Partners and here our GPs and primary care colleagues have the opportunity to talk about issues and specialties that they are working on or interested in.

This month, Dr Arun Thimmiah gives advice and support about cervical cancer and the importance of cervical screening.

Cervical Cancer Prevention Week takes place between 23 and 29 January.

What is Cervical Cancer?

Dr Arun Thimmiah said: “Cervical cancer can be found anywhere in the cervix (the opening between the vagina and the womb).

“Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by an infection from certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV).

“Cervical cancer can often be prevented by attending cervical screening, which aims to find and treat changes to cells before they turn into cancer.

“Cervical cancer usually grows very slowly. How serious it is depends on how big it is, if it has spread and your general health.”

What are the symptoms of cervical cancer?

Dr Arun Thimmiah said: “The main symptoms of cervical cancer include:

· Vaginal bleeding that’s unusual for you – including bleeding during or after sex, between your periods or after the menopause, or having heavier periods than usual.

· Changes to your vaginal discharge

· Pain during sex

· Pain in your lower back, between your hip bones (pelvis), or in your lower tummy.

“It’s important to get any symptoms of cervical cancer checked as soon as possible.”

Can you tell me more about cervical screening?

Dr Arun Thimmiah said: “Cervical screening also known as a smear test, checks the health of your cervix. It’s not a test for cancer, it’s a test to help prevent cancer.

“All women and people with a cervix aged 25 and 64 should be invited by letter.

“During the screening appointment, a small sample of cells will be taken from your cervix. The sample is checked for certain types of HPV that can cause changes to the cells of your cervix. These are called high-risk types of HPV.

“If the high-risk types of HPV are not found, you do not need any further tests. If they are found, the sample is then checked for any changes in the cells of your cervix. These can then be treated before they get a chance to turn into cervical cancer.

“The nurse or doctor will tell you when you can expect your results letter.”

You can find out more about the causes of cervical cancer here and treatment options for cervical cancer here.