Ladies... Make sure YOU are protected

image from google

This morning I read an article in the star (link HERE) and I sorta not sure whether to laugh or cry. Don't you think it's funny that she's 34 and she only found out about it now!! So that raises a few really important points


1. You should (not a must) visit a gynecologist as soon as you hit your teen years (or before you start having sex).
Yes, I mean as soon as you turn 11 (or earlier). I guess in Malaysia we don't have the appropriate exposure as to when a girl should start seeing a gynecologist. People always think about pregnancy when they hear the word gynecologists. They do a lot more than that okay!

2. That brings us to the fact that if a person don't see a gynecologist, don't they do a check-up on their reproductive system?
Apparently NOT. Don't be surprised when you ask a friend about this and they will say they have never went to see a gynecologist. Most of us who already have children, of course we have seen gynecologists. We don't really have a choice. But for our single friends, most of them have never seen one.

3. People may ask what's the point of going to a gynecologist? I'm not married and I'm not sexually active.
Ok, but what if you have cancer cells in your reproductive system? Allah forbid, I don't wish this upon anyone, but what if? If only the person had gone to see a gynecologist and detect it earlier, it would make a world of difference.

4. I have already been given the cervical cancer vaccination, so do I need further checks down the road?
Of course you do. The vaccination is there to reduce the impact of cervical cancer. It doesn't come with 100% guarantee. Pap smear can be done regularly to check the cervix condition. Some say pap smear should be done every 2 years, some say 3 years. Consult your gynecologist.

5. The hype about cervical cancer vaccination started about a year ago if I'm not mistaken. So everyone rushed to get it. Sensible? NO!
It's good to get it but the vaccination is useful if given before a girl is exposed to the HPV virus (through sexual contact). Meaning if you have had sex before that, it won't be as effective. So you can determine if you need to get the vaccination or otherwise.

6. I'm doomed. I had sex prior to getting the vaccination.
Don't worry. You are not alone. Do pap smear regularly. If there is anything wrong, early detection can save you.

7. I already have children, do I need to have pap smear regularly as well?
Yes, same rules apply.

Now back to me... I myself first went to see a gynecologist when I was 18. Did a pap smear and it was embarassing. When I know the importance of it, it wasn't as embarassing. Maybe only 20% embarrased. Hehe. Be sure to get the area clean and clear. Don't leave a jungle down there or you'll be 200% more embarrased. Hahaha.