Preserving hope: cervical cancer and the options for women’s fertility

AS WE OBSERVE Cervical Cancer Awareness Month this September, it is important to remember that a diagnostic label of cervical cancer does not have to extinguish a woman's hopes of starting or expanding her family.

- STAFF REPORTER

Through comprehensive care, proactive detection and expert medical support, many young women may find paths to preserve their fertility or explore alternative avenues to parenthood, says Affinity Health, a health cover provider.

Understanding cervical cancer:

Cervical cancer arises from the cells that comprise the lining of the cervix - the lower segment of the uterus that links to the vagina. The primary cause can be attributed to persistent infections with certain high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a prevalent sexually-transmitted infection.

The encouraging news is that cervical cancer is largely preventable and treatable, particularly when identified in its early stages.

In South Africa, pap smears and HPV testing - available through both public clinics and private healthcare practitioners - play a pivotal role in the early detection of this disease. The HPV vaccine, which is offered through school programmes and private health channels, significantly decreases the risk of developing cervical cancer in the future.

While survival remains the priority following a diagnosis, discussions around fertility preservation gain critical importance, particularly for younger women navigating this life-altering situation.

How cervical cancer can affect fertility: