Prevent Cervical Cancer!

Cervical cancer is one of the few diseases that is easily prevented by the HPV Vaccine. Take advantage of this!! People think requiring this will encourage teens to have sex earlier or think they're invincible, but this is the same incorrect thinking that goes along with abstinence-only sex education. This type of sex ed has shown to be ineffective and does not prevent kids from having sex. Instead, education on STDs and their dangers and how to protect yourself helps them know the facts, be safe, and does NOT encourage earlier first intercourse. Plus, when it comes down to it, wouldn't you rather your kids not get cancer or other terrible diseases than to risk not vaccinating them because of a fear not backed with facts?

• Cervical cancer is caused by the HPV virus. Females between the ages of 9 and 26 can get an HPV vaccine that prevents 70% of cervical cancers.
• To prevent cervical cancer women over the age of 18 should get regular pap tests even if they have had the HPV vaccine. See www.cancerutah.org/prevent for more information.

Getting regular PAP smears is also an important part of prevention of this and other diseases or problems. Once a year is recommended, I believe, I think after you become sexually active. I don't think they're as bad as perceived and the doctors are usually super nice. You can request female doctors too, if that helps. Don't be scared! Your health is important and worth it!