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27 March 2025

Do I still need to get a cervical cancer screening after a hysterectomy? Answer by Dr. Dr.Kitti Chattrakulchai


27 March 2025
Updates

Q: Do I still need to undergo cervical cancer screening after a hysterectomy?

A: If you've had a hysterectomy, it depends on the type of surgery performed. If both the uterus and cervix were removed, you generally do not need to continue cervical cancer screening. However, if the cervix was left intact, screening may still be necessary.

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat various conditions, such as uterine fibroids, abnormal bleeding, or chronic pelvic pain. During this procedure, the uterus is removed, which often leads to questions about the need for future cervical cancer screenings.

Even though the uterus is removed, cervical cancer screening may still be important.

Where does cervical cancer occur?
Cervical cancer occurs in the cervix, which may still be present after the uterus is removed. Additionally, women who have undergone a hysterectomy still face a risk of other cancers related to the reproductive system.

Age and medical history
Women who are older or have a family history of cervical cancer should continue regular screenings, even if they no longer have a uterus.

Risks of other cancers
Women who have had a hysterectomy may also need to consider their risk of other cancers, such as ovarian cancer or vaginal cancer, which can still occur even without a uterus.

Cervical Cancer Screening Methods

After undergoing a hysterectomy, it’s important to follow your doctor’s recommendations for ongoing health screenings, including cervical cancer checks and other necessary examinations. Generally, this may include:

Pap Smear Test: In general, women aged 21 to 65 should undergo a Pap smear every 3 years. This test may be combined with an HPV (Human Papillomavirus) test to assess risk factors.

Other Testing Methods: Depending on an individual's health history and risk factors, tests such as ultrasound or MRI may be recommended if there are unusual symptoms.

Although a hysterectomy removes the uterus, cervical cancer screening remains an important part of women's health care. Consulting with a doctor and following their recommended screening guidelines will help detect health issues at an early stage, leading to more effective treatment in the future. For more information, feel free to contact us on Line: @Beyondivf

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The Biological Clock

This tool indicates:

  • Natural conception per month if you have no fertility issues
  • IVF success rate at the same age
  • When to seek help after months of unsuccessful attempts

If you are concerned at any stage – we recommend booking a doctor appointment or a free nurse consultation. The sooner you make a plan the better your chances in the long term.

When to seek advice early

  • If you have polycystic ovaries, endometriosis, or have been through a cancer diagnosis; we recommend you get in touch quickly so we can talk you through all your options and give you the greatest possible chance of success.
  • If you’re a single woman considering motherhood in the future; it’s best to approach us early and consider egg freezing as this can be an option for you while you have a higher ovarian reserve and healthier eggs.
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Body Mass Index calculator

Being overweight or underweight can reduce fertility, so it is important to keep your body weight within the normal healthy range.

Body Mass Index (BMI) is an indication of your body weight and can be calculated by dividing weight by height. You should aim for a BMI of between 20 and 25, as this will optimise your chances of conception.

Woman’s BMI below 19

Even in these modern times, nature knows best. If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

Being underweight

If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

BMI’s greater than 30

This can reduce fertility by 50%. Pregnancy for women with a 30+ BMI is often associated with problems such as maternal diabetes, high blood pressure, big babies and increased risk of caesarean section.

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