Cervical Health Awareness Month

January marks Cervical Health Awareness Month, a time to pause and recognize how powerful preventive care can be in safeguarding long-term health. Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, and at AtlantiCare, Shirley Mills, MD and our OB/GYN team are committed to helping every patient stay informed, supported and empowered.

Understanding the Root Causes of Cervical Cancer

Most cervical cancers are linked to Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a very common virus that many people encounter at some point in their lives. While that can sound unsettling, the message behind it is incredibly hopeful: with routine screenings and the HPV vaccine, cervical cancer can often be prevented before it ever begins.

“Early detection truly saves lives, and even small decisions, like making time for an annual appointment, can have a lasting impact,” said Dr. Mills.

Pap & HPV Testing: Your First Line of Defense

Routine Pap and HPV screenings remain the most effective way to identify early changes, often long before symptoms ever appear. Screening needs vary by age and history, and that’s where our OB/GYN specialists come in, like Dr. Mills. The team takes the time to understand your personal health journey and guide you toward the care schedule that fits your needs.

For many, a Pap smear is a routine part of an annual visit.

“It’s quick, but easy to overlook in the bustle of a busy life. Those few minutes in the exam room are minutes that can save your life and detect changes in cervical cells long before symptoms appear,” said Dr. Mills.

When caught early, these changes can be monitored or treated well before they develop into something more serious. Staying consistent with your Pap smears is one of the best ways to take charge of your health. If you’re unsure when you last had a screening or whether you’re due for one, your provider can help you understand the right next step.

“The HPV vaccine is another powerful tool in prevention,” said Dr. Mills. “The HPV vaccine reduces the risk of exposure to the most high-risk strains of HPV that can lead to cervical cancer. The vaccine has expanded to benefit anyone between the ages of 9 and 45. It is not only imperative that patients are vaccinated against HPV, but their partners are as well.”

For those considering vaccination for themselves or their children, our providers are always available to answer questions, offer reassurance, and help make informed choices.

Prioritize Your Health This Year

Cervical Health Awareness Month is a reminder that prioritizing your health doesn’t have to be complicated. Scheduling that overdue screening, asking about the HPV vaccine, or encouraging a loved one to take care of themselves can make a meaningful difference.

At AtlantiCare, we’re here to walk beside you, offering compassionate OB/GYN care that supports you at every stage of life. Your health matters, and together, we can take the steps that keep you well today, tomorrow and for years to come.