HPV, or the human papillomavirus, a leading cause in cervical cancer, claims more than 6 women a day in Thailand, or more than 2,200 women per year.  These are sobering statistics, but a solution exists in the form of the HPV vaccine, which is recommended in women up to the age of 26.

Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer

  • Starting intercourse at a young age
  • Having multiple sexual partners or having a partner that has been exposed previously to HPV
  • Usage of oral contraceptives for 5 or more years
  • Women who have given birth to 1 or more children
  • Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption

Screening for Cervical Cancer

  1. Pap Smear: involves a simple swab of cervical tissue by the Doctor, which is sent to a lab for testing and analysis
  2. Thin Prep: A similar, but more advanced version of the pap smear where cell samples are collected using a special brush that is immediately washed in a special fluid.

Either a pap smear or a thin prep test is recommended at least once per year.

Cervical cancer

Cervical Cancer -website

Prevention

Cervical cancer prevention through the HPV Vaccine (3 injections total)

Vaccination Schedule

1st vaccination shot can be scheduled as per the patient’s convenience

2nd vaccination shot within 1-2 months of the first

3rd and final vaccination shot within 6 months of the first