This week marks Cervical Cancer Awareness Week.
We would like to address how Cervical Cancer impacts fertility, and how to prevent it.
What Is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical Cancer is a cancer of the cervix (the neck of the womb).
It occurs when cells in the cervix become abnormal and slowly change over time.
Approximately 99% of Cervical Cancer cases are preventable.
How does Cervical Cancer Impact Fertility?
Unfortunately, many of the treatments for Cervical Cancer can affect fertility and
some treatments leave patients unable to become pregnant in the future.
How Can Fertility Be Preserved Before Treatment?
Even with a diagnosis of Cervical Cancer, there are many steps you can take to preserve your fertility and help you get pregnant in the future.
Egg Freezing or Embryo Freezing are 2 options that may be possible to patients before undertaking Cervical Cancer treatment.
At Beacon CARE Fertility approximately 97% of embryos survive the entire process of freezing and thawing.
How Can I Reduce My Risk of Cervical Cancer?
Regular smear tests are an important prevention tool.
For a full list of prevention guidelines, and to read more about Cervical Cancer, check out hse.ie