City of Toronto   *
HomeContact UsHow Do I...? Advanced search
Living in TorontoDoing businessVisiting TorontoAccessing City Hall *
*
 
Public Health Home
A - Z Index
 
# Cancer Prevention and Screening
Prevention
Screening
  Breast health
  Cervical health
  Colorectal health
Sun safety
Toronto Cancer Prevention Coalition
Contact us
 
*
*
* * Cancer Prevention and Screening *
* * Cervical Health Download the Pap Test pamphlet document
(PDF file size 49KB)

Get Adobe Acrobat
What is the cervix?
  • The cervix is part of a woman's reproductive organs. The cervix is at the top of the vagina and is the opening to the uterus (womb).
Uterus diagram


Back to top

What we know about cervical cancer
(cancer of the cervix)
  • Cervical cancer is 90 per cent preventable.
  • Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common infection. HPV can be passed between two people during sexual activity. There are over 100 different types of HPV. Some high risk types of HPV may cause changes in the cells of the cervix. Most women will clear the infection on their own.
  • Early changes in the cervix can happen without pain or other symptoms.
  • If not found and treated, cell changes in the cervix can grow into cancer.
  • It can take many years for cervical cancer to develop.
  • Regular Pap tests can find changes early and prevent cancer of the cervix.


Back to top

What is a Pap test?
  • The Pap test is a simple test used to look at the cells of the cervix (opening to the uterus).
  • A Pap test can be done by a doctor or nurse.
  • By having a Pap test, changes in the cervix can be found early and treated before cancer ever develops.
  • In most cases, abnormal Pap test results do not mean cancer.
  • If there are changes, it is important to follow up. Your doctor may do the Pap test again or send you to a specialist for treatment.
  • A Pap test does not check you for other sexually transmitted infections. Talk to your doctor or nurse about other tests you may need.
What puts you at risk for cervical cancer?
  • Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
  • Sexual activity now or in the past
  • Sexual intercourse before age 18
  • Smoking
  • Many sexual partners


Back to top

Who needs a Pap test?
  • Every woman who is or has ever been sexually active.
How often should a Pap test be done?
  • Every year once you start having sex
  • If your tests are normal for three years in a row, then you will need a Pap test every two to three years
  • Have regular Pap tests until at least age 70
When is the best time to have a Pap test?
  • Have a Pap test when you do not have your period.
  • Do not have sex for 24 hours before the test.
  • Do not use vaginal medications or douches for 48 hours before the test.


Back to top

How to protect yourself against cervical cancer

  • If you have ever been sexually active, have regular Pap tests.
  • Delay sexual intercourse until after age 18.
  • Use condoms to lower your risk.
  • Avoid tobacco smoke.
  • Talk to your doctor or nurse about the HPV vaccine.
  • Take care of yourself - eat well, be active every day and get enough sleep.
Lovers graphic goes here
Make a promise to yourself.
A Pap test now can prevent cancer of the cervix later.


Related links:
For more information call
Toronto Health Connection at 416-338-7600.


Back to top Back to index

 
Toronto maps | Get involved | Toronto links | 311 | Comment | Subscribe | Privacy statement
 © City of Toronto 1998-2010