This Valentine's Day, show your love and get protected against cervical cancer

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VALENTINE'S Day is traditionally a time for chocolates, flowers, and romantic dinners. But what if this year, you and your partner focused on something different — celebrating your love by prioritizing your health and well-being?

This Valentine's Day, consider a new love language: the language of health and protection. Let's explore how couples can make this day special while taking proactive steps toward a healthier future together.

While often associated with women's health, the human papillomavirus (HPV) is a concern for both men and women. It is a common sexually transmitted infection that can lead to cervical cancer in women and other cancers in both sexes. While most HPV infections clear up on their own, persistent infections can lead to serious health problems, including cervical, vaginal, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers.

EXPRESSION OF LOVE Start meaningful conversations about your sexual health as HPV is a shared concern for couples. PHOTO FROM MSD PHILIPPINES

The good news is that HPV is preventable through screening, vaccination, and healthy lifestyle choices. To stay protected, remember the ABCDVs of cervical cancer prevention:

· Abstinence

· Being faithful to one partner

· Condom use

· Doctor consultation

· Vaccination against HPV

Cervical cancer is one of the only preventable cancers. HPV vaccines can prevent infection with disease-causing HPV types, reducing the risk of many HPV-related cancers and cases of genital warts. By prioritizing protection, you safeguard your partner's well-being, fostering a healthier relationship.

This Valentine's Day, consider making a joint decision to discuss HPV prevention with your doctor as a symbol of your commitment to each other's health.

Alongside abstinence, monogamy, and condom use, regular screening and early detection play crucial roles in preventing serious HPV-related health complications. Routine check-ups help identify potential issues before they develop into severe conditions.

For women, Pap smears and HPV tests can detect abnormal cervical cells early, allowing for timely intervention. While there is no standard HPV screening test for men, regular health consultations help monitor for any HPV-related symptoms. By staying proactive, couples can take control of their health together.

The HPV vaccine is recommended for both males and females, ideally before they become sexually active. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests routine HPV vaccination for boys and girls at age 11 or 12, though it can be administered as early as age 9. The vaccine follows a two-dose series for those who start before 15 and a three-dose series for those who begin at 15 or older. Even if you're already sexually active, the vaccine can still provide protection.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the HPV vaccine is highly effective, preventing up to 90 percent of HPV-related cancers. By getting vaccinated as a couple, you're investing in a future together with reduced health risks.

Health-Focused Activities for Valentine's Day

· Schedule a Doctor's Appointment: Discuss HPV prevention as a couple. Vaccines are easily accessible at local pharmacies, hospitals, and specialized clinics.

· Get Vaccinated: Clinics like Kindred and the Healthway Vax Hub offer HPV vaccination services. You can also book your HPV vaccination at Mercury Drug, Watsons Pharmacy, and Southstar Drug with a doctor's prescription.

· Consider HPV Screening: If sexually active, get screened for HPV. While there is no routine test for men, women can get regular Pap smears to detect abnormal cervical cells early. Starting at 30, women should undergo HPV screening every 5 to 10 years.

· Discuss Health History: Talk to your healthcare provider about your health risks and HPV prevention strategies. Open communication fosters informed decision-making.

A romantic candlelit dinner is a perfect setting to discuss your health as a couple. Open dialogue about sexual health strengthens relationships, reduces the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and promotes well-being. Couples should share knowledge about STIs, including HPV, and discuss their vaccination status.

Love is a journey, and health is an integral part of that journey. Prioritizing your health is one of the most profound ways to express love for yourself and your partner. By doing so, you ensure many more Valentine's Days together, filled with love, laughter, and good health.

To learn more about how to protect yourself and your partner from HPV and cervical cancer, visit https://guardagainsthpv.ph/ today.