How to self-examine for cervical cancer

Cervical cancer can be self-diagnosed through cervical cytology, human papillomavirus testing, acetic acid white test, colposcopy, cervical biopsy and other methods. Cervical cancer is usually caused by human papillomavirus infection, long-term chronic cervical inflammation, multiple sexual partners, smoking, and low immune system function.

1. Cervical cytology examination

Cervical cytology examination is a common method for screening cervical cancer. By collecting cervical exfoliated cells for pathological examination, early cervical cancer and precancerous lesions can be found. Sexual intercourse, vaginal douching and the use of vaginal medications should be avoided 24 hours before the examination. When cervical cytology results are abnormal, further colposcopy or cervical biopsy is required to confirm the diagnosis. It is recommended that women of appropriate age undergo regular cervical cytology examinations to help detect cervical cancer early.

2. Human papillomavirus detection

Human papillomavirus testing is to determine whether there is a risk of cancer by detecting the DNA or RNA of high-risk human papillomavirus in cervical secretions. Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus is the main cause of cervical cancer. When the test result is positive, the risk needs to be assessed in conjunction with cervical cytology results. Human papillomavirus testing can be performed in conjunction with cervical cytology to improve the accuracy of cervical cancer screening.

3. Acetic acid whitening test

The acetic acid whitening test is a simple cervical cancer screening method that involves applying an acetic acid solution to the surface of the cervix and observing the color change. Normal cervical epithelium does not change color, while abnormal epithelium appears white. The acetic acid white test is simple to operate and low-cost, and is suitable as a preliminary screening method in areas with limited medical resources. However, this method has low specificity and needs to be combined with other examination methods to improve diagnostic accuracy.

4. Colposcopy

Colposcopy is an examination method that uses magnification to observe the cervix, vagina and vulva. It can detect tiny lesions that are difficult to identify with the naked eye. During the examination, the doctor will use acetic acid solution and iodine solution to help identify abnormal areas, and perform targeted biopsies if necessary. Colposcopy is an important method for diagnosing cervical precancerous lesions and early cervical cancer. The examination may be slightly uncomfortable but is usually tolerable.

5. Cervical biopsy

Cervical biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosing cervical cancer by taking cervical tissue for pathological examination. Methods such as spot biopsy and cone biopsy can be used depending on the condition of the lesion. Cervical biopsy may cause slight bleeding and discomfort, and you need to avoid sexual intercourse and strenuous exercise after the procedure. Pathological results can clarify the nature and extent of the disease and provide a basis for subsequent treatment.

Regular screening is required to prevent cervical cancer. It is recommended that women over 21 years old or with a history of sexual intercourse undergo cervical cytology examination every 3 years. Women over 30 years old can undergo cervical cytology examination combined with human papillomavirus testing every 5 years. Maintaining good living habits, avoiding multiple sexual partners, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol, and getting vaccinated against human papillomavirus can all help reduce the risk of cervical cancer. If symptoms such as abnormal vaginal bleeding or increased secretions occur, you should seek medical examination promptly.