Protect Yourself

What can you do to protect yourself?

EVERY 7 MINUTES A WOMAN IN AMERICA IS DIAGNOSED WITH A CANCER OF HER REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM.

You can beat the odds of developing and surviving a gynecologic cancer by taking these specific steps:

• Ask questions and learn about the symptoms of reproductive cancers.
• Make an annual appointment for a gynecologic exam and Pap Test.
• Get routine mammograms to monitor the genetic link between breast cancer and ovarian cancer.  Breast cancer in you or a family member increases your risk of ovarian cancer.
• Early vaccination (between the ages of 9 and 26) with Gardasil® to protect against certain types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) that can cause cervical cancer and genital warts. 
• Visit a doctor if you have gynecologic symptoms that persist or come and go frequently for at least two weeks.
• Know your family history. Tell your doctor if you have a personal or family history of any cancer, but specifically ovarian, breast, colon, or pancreatic cancers.
• Trust your instincts. Know your body so you can sense when something isn’t right. Continue to ask questions until you get answers.