Having sex too often can lead to cervical cancer? These 4 things may increase your cancer risk

Ms. Wang, who is in her early 30s, walked into the clinic with an anxious look. Before I could ask her, she said anxiously, "Doctor, I have been feeling uncomfortable in my lower body recently, and my vaginal discharge is not normal. I am worried that I have a serious disease." I asked her not to worry and to explain the symptoms slowly. Ms. Wang continued, "Doctor, my menstruation has not been regular in the past few months, and I have bleeding after sex." After a detailed inquiry and examination, Ms. Wang's face became even paler. It turned out that she was diagnosed with early cervical lesions. Ms. Wang asked me in panic: "Doctor, why did this happen to me? I usually pay attention to hygiene." After calming her down, I said, "Don't be too nervous, let's find the reason first. I want to ask, how is your married life?" Ms. Wang hesitated and said, "My husband and I have a good relationship, and we may have sex quite often." I patiently explained: "Too many times of sex may indeed increase the risk of damage to the cervix, thereby giving the virus an opportunity to take advantage. But this is only one of the possible factors." Ms. Wang was confused: "Doctor, are there any other reasons?" Next, I want to tell you that in addition to too many times of sex, there are these 4 things that may also increase the risk of cervical cancer.

1. Persistent HPV infection: the number one culprit of cervical cancer

HPV (human papillomavirus) infection is the main cause of cervical cancer.

Most women will be infected with HPV at some point in their life, but the body's immune system is usually able to clear the virus on its own.

However, if HPV infection persists, especially high-risk HPV infection, it may cause cervical cell lesions and gradually develop into cervical cancer.

Ms. Wang asked nervously:

"How do you know if you have persistent HPV infection?"

I answered:

“It is important to have regular HPV screening and cervical cytology.

It is generally recommended that women who have sexual activities have relevant examinations every year or every two years.

Through these examinations, we can detect HPV infection early and whether there are abnormal changes in cervical cells.

If it’s caught early, it’s usually very effective to treat.”

2. Long-term smoking - the "chronic killer" of the cervix

Smoking is not only harmful to the lungs, but also to the cervix.

The harmful substances in cigarettes can reduce the body's immunity and make the cervix more vulnerable to viruses.

At the same time, these harmful substances may also affect the normal metabolism of cervical cells and increase the risk of cancer.

I looked at Ms. Wang and said:

“Smoking is like a layer of smoke covering the cervix, making it difficult to breathe and making it vulnerable.

Nicotine, tar and other ingredients in cigarettes will enter the blood circulation, reach the cervix, and interfere with the normal growth and repair of cervical cells.

In addition, smoking affects the body's absorption of nutrients such as vitamin C, which are very important for maintaining a healthy cervix."

Ms. Wang said in surprise:

"I never thought smoking would be so harmful."

"Yes, so for your health, not only should you pay attention to other aspects, but it is also necessary to quit smoking."

I persuaded.

3. Multiple childbirths: "overstrain" of the cervix

Multiple births can cause repeated damage and irritation to the cervix, reducing the cervix's defense capabilities.

The cervix goes through a "test" with every birth, and if it happens too often, problems are likely to occur.

I said to Ms. Wang:

"The cervix is ​​like a spring. If it is always overstretched, it will be difficult to restore its original elasticity and function.

During childbirth, the cervix needs to dilate to a great extent, which will cause certain damage to the cervical tissue and muscles.

If you don't have enough time to recover and then get pregnant and give birth again, the damage will accumulate.

Moreover, multiple births may also lead to changes in hormone levels, affecting the microenvironment of the cervix and making it more susceptible to external factors.”

Ms. Wang nodded thoughtfully.

4. Low immunity - the "defense loophole" of the cervix

When the body's immunity is low, it cannot effectively resist the invasion of viruses and bacteria, including HPV virus.

Long-term low immunity will put the cervix in a dangerous environment and increase the chance of cancer.

I said to Ms. Wang:

“Immunity is like the body’s guards. If the guards are weak, it will be easy for the enemy to attack.

Excessive stress, malnutrition, lack of exercise, and lack of sleep may all lead to a decline in immunity.

Therefore, we should maintain a healthy lifestyle and make the body's guards stronger to better protect the cervix."

Ms. Wang asked anxiously: "How can we improve immunity?"

I answered:

“Maintain good living habits, such as eating a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and high-quality protein;

Moderate exercise, such as walking, yoga, and swimming are all good choices;

Get enough sleep, 7-8 hours a day;

You also need to learn to relieve stress, such as through meditation, listening to music, and chatting with friends.

These all help boost immunity.”

Finally, let’s learn some knowledge about cervical cancer.

The development of cervical cancer is a gradual process, usually going through the stage of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN).

CIN is divided into grades I, II and III. The higher the grade, the greater the risk of cancer.

If detected in the early stages and treated appropriately, such as cervical conization, laser therapy, etc., the disease can be effectively prevented from progressing to cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer is a cancer that can be prevented and detected early.

By getting vaccinated with HPV vaccine, you can effectively prevent HPV infection and reduce the risk of cervical cancer.

Currently, bivalent, quadrivalent and nonavalent HPV vaccines are available, and eligible women are recommended to get vaccinated as early as possible.

Regular gynecological examinations, including cervical smears and HPV tests, can detect cervical lesions early, provide timely treatment, and prevent further development of the disease. I hope that Ms. Wang can control and improve her condition by adjusting her lifestyle and actively treating it. I also hope that more female friends can pay attention to these risk factors and protect their cervical health. In short, caring for your body starts with understanding the risks of cervical cancer, so that we can stay away from the threat of cancer and embrace a healthy life. Follow me to get more health knowledge~