January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, with 19–25 January dedicated to Cervical Cancer Prevention Week.
This is an important opportunity to keep wellbeing firmly on everyone’s radar, with a focus on prevention, early detection, and awareness of cervical cancer.
Raising awareness or organising activities in the workplace helps create a visible and consistent structure for wellbeing initiatives. Getting involved enables employees and colleagues to spot issues early, learn something useful, and build healthier habits. It also encourages open conversations, supporting a healthier, more positive, and productive workplace.
Click the button below to download the Cervical Cancer Awareness 2026 poster
Download your posterWhat Is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is cancer of the cervix (the neck of the womb).
How Can Cervical Cancer Be Prevented?
1. Cervical Screening
What is a Cervical smear?
A cervical (Pap) smear is a screening test that checks the cervix. A small sample of cells is taken from the cervix using a soft brush and tested for HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) — an infection that may lead to cervical cancer.
- If HPV is detected, the sample is then checked for cell changes, as these cell changes may develop into cervical cancer if left untreated.
- If no HPV is detected, the risk of cervical cancer is very low.
Why have Cervical screening?
Cervical screening looks for early cell changes that could develop into cervical cancer. Detecting these changes early means they can be monitored or treated, helping to prevent cervical cancer from developing.
Who Should Attend for Screening?
- Cervical screening is available to women and people with a cervix aged 25–64 in England.
- It is important to attend all cervical screening invitations, as early detection can prevent cervical cancer from developing.
2. HPV Vaccination
What is HPV (Human Papilloma Virus)?
HPV is a very common virus that can cause cancer in both males and females.
- Without vaccination, around 80% of adults will have an HPV infection at some point in their life.
- In most people, HPV causes no symptoms and clears on its own.
- Vaccination against HPV protects against many cancers.
Who can have the HPV vaccine?
Vaccination is most effective before becoming sexually active and before acquiring HPV infection.
For people who are already sexually active, the vaccine may still be beneficial, as it helps prevent new HPV infections.
In the UK, the HPV vaccine is offered to boys and girls aged 12–13, usually through the school vaccination programme.
Reduce your risk
You can help lower your risk of cervical cancer by adopting healthy lifestyle habits:
- Practice safe sex
Use condoms to reduce the transmission of HPV. - Quit smoking
Stopping smoking can significantly lower your risk. - Maintain a healthy lifestyle
A balanced diet and regular physical activity support overall health and wellbeing.
Be aware of symptoms
Cervical cancer may not always cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, possible signs include:
- Bleeding between periods, after sex, or after the menopause
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Pelvic pain or discomfort during intercourse
- Persistent lower back or pelvic pain
These symptoms may be related to other health conditions, but if you experience any of them, it is important to seek medical advice.
When should I see a Doctor?
If you notice any unusual symptoms or have concerns about your risk, do not wait for your next screening appointment. Contact your GP as soon as possible.
Key Takeaway Messages
- Attend regular cervical screening appointments
- Consider the HPV vaccination
- Be vigilant about symptoms
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Show Your Commitment To Women’s Health
Show you company’s commitment to women’s health. Click the link below to start your W@W journey.
Start Your W@W JourneyFrequently Asked Questions About Cervical Cancer
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cervix, which is the opening between the vagina and the womb. It is most commonly caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV).
What causes cervical cancer?
The main cause of cervical cancer is long-term infection with certain high-risk strains of HPV. Other factors, such as smoking and a weakened immune system, can increase the risk.
How can cervical cancer be prevented?
Cervical cancer can often be prevented through regular cervical screening, HPV vaccination, and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits such as not smoking and practising safe sex.
What is cervical screening and why is it important?
Cervical screening checks for HPV and early cell changes in the cervix that could develop into cancer if left untreated. Identifying these changes early allows for monitoring or treatment before cancer develops.
Who should attend cervical screening in the UK?
In England, cervical screening is offered to women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64. Attending all screening invitations is important, even if you feel well or have no symptoms.
What is HPV and how common is it?
HPV (human papillomavirus) is a very common virus. Around 80% of adults will have an HPV infection at some point in their lives. In most cases, the virus causes no symptoms and clears on its own.
Does the HPV vaccine prevent cervical cancer?
The HPV vaccine protects against the most common high-risk types of HPV that can cause cervical cancer, as well as other cancers. It is most effective when given before exposure to the virus.
What are the early symptoms of cervical cancer?
Early-stage cervical cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. Possible signs can include unusual vaginal bleeding, changes in vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, or pain during sex. Any unusual symptoms should be checked by a GP.
When should I see a doctor about possible symptoms?
You should contact your GP if you experience unusual bleeding, persistent pelvic pain, or any symptoms that concern you. Do not wait until your next screening appointment if something doesn’t feel right.
Why is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month important in the workplace?
Cervical Cancer Awareness Month helps raise awareness, encourages early detection, and supports open conversations about health. Workplace awareness initiatives can empower employees to look after their wellbeing and seek support early.
Can lifestyle choices affect the risk of cervical cancer?
Yes. Not smoking, practising safe sex, attending screening appointments, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can all help reduce the risk of cervical cancer.