January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, but the truth is, cervical health matters all year long. Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, yet many women delay screenings or aren’t sure what they need, when they need it, or how to afford it. The good news? A few simple steps can make a big difference.

Here’s what every woman should know about cervical cancer, prevention, and how Carevide can help you take charge of your health.

Understanding Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer starts in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. Most cases are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a very common virus that many people are exposed to at some point in their lives. In most cases, HPV goes away on its own. But when it doesn’t, it can lead to changes in cervical cells over time that may develop into cancer.

Because these changes often don’t cause symptoms right away, regular screenings are key.

The Power of Prevention

Cervical cancer is highly preventable thanks to two major tools:

  • HPV vaccination, which helps protect against the types of HPV most likely to cause cervical cancer

  • Routine cervical cancer screenings, which can find precancerous changes early, before cancer develops

Currently, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends the following:

  1. For ages 21-30, getting Pap smears every three years

  2. For ages 30-65, getting Pap smears every five years with co-testing (testing for both cell abnormalities and HPV)

Why Cervical Cancer Screenings Matter

Pap tests and HPV tests can detect changes in cervical cells early, often long before symptoms appear. When caught early, cervical cancer is much easier to treat.

Affordable Screening Options Through Healthy Texas Women BCCS Program

Cost should never be a barrier to preventive care. The Healthy Texas Women Breast and Cervical Cancer Services program helps cover breast and cervical cancer screenings at an affordable rate for eligible women.

Carevide can help you:

  • See if you qualify for the program

  • Enroll in coverage

  • Schedule your screenings

Learn more about the program here: https://www.healthytexaswomen.org/healthcare-programs/breast-cervical-cancer-services

Compassionate Women’s Health Care at Carevide

Carevide is proud to offer compassionate, affordable women’s health care at our Carevide Women’s Health locations in Greenville and Sulphur Springs. Our team is here to support you through every stage of life, from routine screenings to answers you can trust.

If you’re due for a Pap test, have questions about cervical cancer prevention, or want help enrolling in Healthy Texas Women, we’re here for you.