Mr Thomas Ind offers private HPV vaccination, smear testing and colposcopy in the comfort of our discreet, efficient clinics in central London.
Most cases of cervical cancer could be prevented. This can be achieved by protecting against infection by the Human Papilloma Virus that causes the disease in the majority of women and by identifying abnormal cells on the cervix before they become cancers.
Cervical screening
Cell changes can be identified in the membrane lining the cervix many years before cervical cancer develops. These abnormalities can be picked up on smear tests. If left untreated, these abnormal cells can potentially lead to cancer – but if the cells are destroyed and the health of the cervix is monitored, the danger of developing the disease can be reduced.
Smear tests
PAP smears can prevent cancer by identifying pre-cancerous cells. If any abnormality or dyskaryosis is identified, the cervix can be closely examined by colposcopy and treatment can be started before cancer develops.
Women should have regular cervical smears at least every three years. This is particularly important in sexually active women between twenty-five and sixty-five years, who are at increased risk of developing the disease.
Preventing HPV infection
HPV vaccine
Vaccination against HPV is the best way of protecting the cervix. This should be done as early as possible, ideally before any form of sexual contact occurs. Our treatment clinics offer HPV testing and private vaccination for women between the ages of 16 and 26.
HPV infection can also be reduced by practising safe sex. This includes having fewer sexual partners, losing virginity at a later age and using a condom. Smoking can also affect the body’s ability to fight the virus, so quitting may help. However, all of these measures will only provide limited benefit. The virus is easily transferred by touching as well as intercourse, so to reduce the chance of contracting HPV it is important for every young woman to be vaccinated.
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