Promoting sexual health: understanding cervical cancer prevention

Sexual health is a crucial aspect of people's overall well-being, and a key part of this health is the prevention of diseases such as cervical cancer. This type of cancer, while it can be worrisome, is highly preventable with proper care and informed decision making. In this case, attention to sexual health translates into prevention and early detection of HPV infections, which are a key risk factor for this type of cancer.

The HPV vaccine is a fundamental tool in the prevention of infection by HPV virus types that cause many cancers such as:

• Cervical cancer in women.
• Vaginal and vulvar cancer in women.
• Anal cancer in women and men.
• Throat cancer in women and men.
• Penile cancer in men.

According to the study on Sexual risk behaviors and cervical cancer preventive activities in HPV-vaccinated college women by Ana Fernandez-Feito, ''Sexual risk behaviors are more prevalent among HPV unvaccinated women, associated with non-use of barrier methods of contraception, which increases the risk of acquiring sexually transmitted diseases''. By making the decision to get the HPV vaccine and practice safer sex, you are strengthening your commitment to a healthy sex life and taking proactive steps to protect your long-term well-being.

Recommendations for a responsible sex life:

• Visit your gynecologist regularly.
• Use condoms..
• Get vaccinated against HPV.
• Undergo preventive exams.
• Maintain open communication with your partner.

By educating ourselves, getting vaccinated, getting screened regularly and promoting healthy sexual relationships, we can reduce our risk of contracting this disease and protect our long-term health and well-being. It is critical that women empower themselves with knowledge about their sexual health and take proactive steps to take care of themselves and their future.