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Mental health has become a popular topic of discussion in several health forums and social media platforms, and even between families and friends. The feeling of anxiety, stress, and depression has always been there, but no one ever really addressed it as much as we do today!
Today’s generation is not only identifying mental health challenges but also seeking professional help to evaluate and manage them.
But, does this mean that this generation is emotionally weaker, can't fight emotional battles alone, and constantly needs reassurance and counsel from professionals?
No! It implies that they dare to stand up and take professional help when needed, just like we do when facing issues with our physical health.
We must realize that there is a huge impact of mental health on physical well-being, including the relation of cervical health and cancer to mental health.
Synopsis
Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer affects the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. It is the 2nd most common cancer among women in India, contributing to 18% of new cases every year. The most common cause behind this disease is the human papillomavirus (HPV). Certain strains of the HPV are considered high-risk and can lead to cervical cancer. However, most HPV strains clear up on their own without causing cancer. Another cause of cervical cancer is having multiple sexual partners.
Even though awareness about the cervical cancer vaccine is spreading, there is still reluctance. This is especially true for young individuals who hesitate to come forward and prevent the condition by taking the required measures.
The Effect of Mental Health on Cervical Cancer
In the context of cervical cancer, mental health issues do have a significant impact, influencing several aspects of life.
How? Let us dig in
Anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and low confidence levels are some common mental health conditions. If it gets severe, it may result in bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or other complicated conditions. This, in turn, often impacts your decision-making skills regarding sexual health. Being grappled with mental health issues, you may ignore prioritizing safe sexual practices such as the use of appropriate protection (condoms) and hygiene.
Additionally, if one is involved in drug abuse, they may not be following proper care when it comes to sexual health. They are more likely to have multiple sexual partners and engage in unprotected sex.
Consult our Gynecologist Hospital in Bangalore if you need to learn more about cervical cancer causes and its effect on mental health.
Preventing Cervical Cancer
The primary way in which preventing cervical cancer is possible is through vaccinations and regular screenings.
For early detection of cervical cancer, regular check-ups from the age of 21 are recommended. These screening tests usually include PAP smears and HPV testing. A PAP smear is a simple yet effective method to detect cervical cancer. It involves collecting cervical discharge samples to identify the abnormalities as early as possible. On the other hand, HPV testing helps identify potential high-risk individuals who may develop cervical cancer later in life. PAP smears are recommended once every 3 years whereas HPV tests can be done once every 5 years.
How Do Mental Health Conditions Impact Diagnostic Procedures?
Physical check-ups may seem daunting to individuals with mental health conditions. There are several reasons behind this.
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Mental health conditions often make it difficult for people to stay focused and care about their cervical health. They often neglect the need for preventive measures and regular check-ups.
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They may also feel concerned about the expenses - for consultations or tests; they are much less likely to visit a gynaecologist for regular check-ups.
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Also, the microscopic stages of cervical cancer hardly show any symptoms. Such a lack of warning signs may make individuals with mental health conditions stubborn not to go for a diagnosis. They may force the fact that everything is fine. This may end up in them getting a diagnosis at a very advanced stage when symptoms start affecting daily life, leading to lower chances of survival. This attitude has increased the amount of cervical cancer in women.
Consult our gynaecologists in Bangalore if you need counselling and treatment for cervical
Creating Awareness for Both Mental Health and Cervical Cancer:
This relationship between mental health and cervical health marks the importance of more prominent awareness of women’s reproductive health. While today’s generation holds so much knowledge about mental well-being, it is also necessary for them to focus on their cervical and overall physical health.
We all should encourage our fellow females to go for routine cervical screenings and openly talk to them to dispel the myths about this cancer. Women who are suffering from mental health conditions must know how to address the challenges they are facing. This will become a beneficial aid in reducing the occurrence of any health hazards.
Let us take the opportunity to spread as much awareness as possible related to the impact of mental health on cervical cancer which will go a long way to developing a healthier future.
FAQ's
Yes, if detected early enough, a patient can completely recover from cervical cancer after the right treatment.
The most common sign of cervical cancer detection is abnormal vaginal bleeding between menstrual cycles, postmenopausal bleeding, consistent pelvic pain, pain or discomfort after sexual intercourse, changes in vaginal discharge - odour, colour & consistency, and constant fatigue.
Stage 1 cervical cancer rarely shows any symptoms. The symptoms become more prominent only when it is at stage 2 and progressing. However, look for subtle signs like vaginal bleeding in between periods and bad smell of vaginal discharge.
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