Broward County Health Department: To promote and protect the health and safety of all persons in Broward County through the delivery of quality public health services
Breast & Cervical Cancer Program
Cervical Cancer Resources

Warning Signs

  • You cannot see or feel early signs of cervical cancer.
  • Only your health-care provider can with pelvic exams and Pap tests.
  • The cervix is the lower end of the uterus (womb).
  • It connects the uterus and the vagina (birth canal).

Image of Female Anatomy: Uterus/Cervix/Vagina

Cervical Care Plan

Pelvic Exams (Yearly)

  • If you are 18 or older

  • If you are under 18 and have had sex -- even once

  • Older women still need a yearly exam after menopause or a hysterectomy

  • Your health-care provider checks your vagina, uterus, cervix, and other organs  (He or she makes sure they are a normal size)

Pap Test

  • You should have one at least every 3 years

  • Ask your health-care provider how often you should have a Pap test

  • Your health-care provider takes a sample from your cervix

  • Breathe deeply and slowly to relax

  • The sample is sent to a lab to be checked

Protection against Cervical Cancer

  • HPV virus may lead to cervical cancer

  • HPV causes genital warts

  • HPV is passed during sex

 If you have sex, use a new latex condom.  Condoms are not 100% effective.  But when used properly, the help protect you and your partner.  Use one for each act of vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
  1. Use condoms when you have sex.
  • Read the package.  Make sure the package reads that the condom helps protect against STDs (sexually transmitted diseases).
  • Use a water-based lubricant (like K-Y® Jelly) for vaginal and anal sex.
  • Do NOT use any oils, petroleum jelly, lotions, or vaginal products that contain oil.
  1. Don't smoke.  
  • Smoking increases your risk of cancer.
  • Ask your health-care provider for help to quit.

More Information...

Contact your local health-care provider, health clinic, or hospital

Organization Phone Number
The American Cancer SocietyLink will open in a new browser (800) 227-2345
Broward County Health Department (954) 762-3649
Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (850) 245-4455
National Cancer InstituteLink will open in a new browser (800) 422-6237
National Alliance of Breast Cancer OrganizationsLink will open in a new browser (800) 719-9154
National Coalition for Cancer SurvivorshipLink will open in a new browser (301) 650-8868
Y-Me National Breast Cancer OrganizationLink will open in a new browser (800) 221-2141
(800) 986-9505 (en español)