Throughout their lives, women have the chance to experience various cervical issues, from non-dangerous ones to more severe cases. One of the most common conditions is cervical dysplasia, where abnormal cells grow on a woman’s cervix.
This guide contains important details regarding cervical dysplasia and methods for its prevention. Do you want to learn more and take additional steps? Keep reading!
What is Cervical Dysplasia?
Cervical dysplasia, also called cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), is a precancerous condition in which the cells on the cervix’s surface grow abnormally. It is mainly found in women under 30.
While this condition is not equal to cancer, the abnormal cell growth has the chance to develop cervical cancer if left untreated.
Causes of Cervical Dysplasia
This condition is caused by HPV or human papillomavirus, a virus spread through sexual interaction. There are over 100 strains of HPV, and HPV-16 and HPV-18 most often lead to cervical dysplasia.
While you can’t get cervical dysplasia without HPV, some risk factors accelerate your chance of getting it, including:
- Having a weakened immune system due to HIV infection or medicines
- Smoking
- Being over age 55
- Intercourse before age 18
- Sexual interaction with multiple partners
- Sexual interaction with someone who has had multiple partners
- Maternal history of DES exposure
What are the Symptoms of Cervical Dysplasia?
As mentioned before, cervical dysplasia doesn’t show symptoms. Instead, the signs of this condition may be detected during regular Pap smear test sessions, which are an essential part of cervical cancer screening.
Therefore, research states the importance of pap tests for early screening to prevent it from developing into something severe without treatment.
How is Cervical Dysplasia Diagnosed?
Pap tests are used to diagnose cervical dysplasia, ranging from mild to severe. Multiple tests may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment, including:
- Repeated Pap tests
- Colposcopy using a colposcope to check abnormal cells in your cervix
- Biopsy to get cervical tissue sample to be examined in the lab
- HPV DNA test to determine the HPV strain
How Can Cervical Dysplasia Be Prevented?
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare statistics show there were 961 new cervical cancer cases in Australia in 2023. To avoid contributing to this statistic, you need to address cervical dysplasia early.
Here are some preventive measures you can take:
Practise Abstinence or Safer Sex
Practising abstinence from sexual encounters can help prevent HPV infections, which is the leading cause of this cervical condition; otherwise, being sexually active can increase the risk of HPV and lead to cervical dysplasia.
If you choose to have sex, you need to make it safer by using condoms or dental dams and reducing the number of sexual partners you have.
Get Regular Pap Smears
The Australian Government encourages women aged 25 and over to have regular Pap smears every five years. A routine Pap smear will detect the signs of cervical dysplasia early.
Get Vaccinated Against HPV
Getting vaccinated is the most essential way to decrease the risk of HPV infection and thus prevent cervical dysplasia. People living in Australia aged 9 to 25 are eligible for the HPV vaccine, and the government provides free HPV vaccination for those aged 12 to 25.
Don’t Smoke or Consume Tobacco Products
Smoking or consuming tobacco products can increase your risk of developing a more severe case of cervical dysplasia. Thus, avoid smoking at all costs.
Frequently Asked Question
Is CIN 1 cervical dysplasia?
Yes, CIN 1 is considered a low-grade or mild dysplasia. Without treatment, these cells can develop into more severe conditions.
What is Stage 3 cervical dysplasia?
Stage 3 means abnormal cells impact over two-thirds of the epithelial layer.
How long does it take for CIN 1 to turn into CIN 2?
It typically takes 12-13 months for a CIN 1 to turn into CIN 2.
Also read : Premenstrual Syndrome: Understand Your Monthly Rollercoaster
Conclusion
Cervical dysplasia, characterised by abnormal cells on the cervix, is a condition that can potentially lead to cervical cancer if left untreated. Regular cervical dysplasia screenings and preventive measures are crucial to prevent the condition from progressing to a more severe stage.
Early detections like Pap smears and preventive measures like HPV vaccinations can significantly reduce the risk.
If you want to get tested for early cervical dysplasia screening, visit Wells Road Medical Centre and let our health experts assist. Also, look at our patient information page for more information
