If you could do something today that would prevent you from getting cancer down the road, would you? We're guessing your answer is YES! The good news is that there ARE some things you can do to protect yourself (or your partner) from getting cervical cancer. Check off the following list to kick off a healthy new year!
1. Make sure you've received all three shots of the HPV vaccine.
The sexually transmitted infection HPV is a major cause of cervical cancer. It's extremely common (about 14 million people, including teens, get HPV each year). HPV can also cause vaginal, vulvar, penile, anal and throat cancers as well as genital warts. The best way to avoid HPV is to get the HPV vaccine, which is available for youth between 9 and 26 years old for free or at a reduced cost at many clinics in California. Find a clinic near you to get vaccinated today!
2. Use condoms!
While HPV can infect some areas NOT covered by condoms, it's always a good idea to use condoms every time you have sex (even during oral sex). Condoms can help protect the areas that are covered and protect against other STDs, including HIV.