Cervical Cancer Screening
CoreMed Plus is committed to providing comprehensive healthcare services to women, including cervical cancer screenings. Cervical cancer is a serious health concern affecting thousands of women yearly, but it is highly curable with early detection and treatment. Regular cervical cancer screenings are crucial in detecting abnormal cells or the presence of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can lead to cervical cancer.
At CoreMed Plus, we offer a range of cervical cancer screening options, including Pap tests and HPV tests. Our experienced healthcare providers work with each patient to determine the most appropriate screening schedule based on their risk factors and medical history.
In addition to screening, our team of healthcare professionals also provides follow-up diagnostic services to ensure prompt evaluation of any abnormal findings. We utilize the latest diagnostic technology, including colposcopy and biopsy, to provide accurate and timely cervical cancer diagnosis.
At CoreMed Plus, we are committed to empowering women with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain their health and well-being. We strive to provide a welcoming and supportive environment where women can receive personalized care and attention from our team of dedicated healthcare professionals.
By choosing CoreMed Plus for cervical cancer screenings, women can take an active role in their healthcare and ensure they receive the most comprehensive and advanced screening and diagnostic services available.
What is Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It typically develops slowly over many years and is often preceded by a precancerous condition called cervical dysplasia.
Most cervical cancers are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection. Other risk factors for cervical cancer include smoking, having a weakened immune system, and having a family history of the disease.
Cervical cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages, so regular cervical cancer screenings are essential. When symptoms do occur, they may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, including bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause, as well as pelvic pain or discomfort during sex.
If cervical cancer is suspected, a healthcare provider may perform a pelvic exam, which involves examining the cervix and surrounding tissues for abnormalities. They may also perform a Pap test, which involves collecting cells from the cervix and analyzing them under a microscope for abnormal changes. If these tests suggest the presence of cancer, further tests, such as a biopsy, may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment for cervical cancer depends on the stage and extent of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination.
Cervical cancer prevention includes getting the HPV vaccine, practicing safe sex, and regular cervical cancer screenings. The American Cancer Society recommends that women aged 25-65 get a Pap test every three years or a combination of a Pap test and an HPV test every five years. Women aged 21-24 should get a Pap test every three years.
Women over the age of 65 who have had regular screenings in the past and are not at high risk for cervical cancer may be able to stop screening.
At CoreMed Plus, we offer a range of cervical cancer screening services, including Pap tests and HPV testing. Our healthcare providers work closely with patients to determine the appropriate screening schedule based on age, risk factors, and personal preferences. We also provide comprehensive education and support to help women prevent and detect cervical cancer early.
Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
In its early stages, cervical cancer may not produce any symptoms. This is why regular cervical cancer screenings, such as Pap tests and HPV tests, are so crucial for detecting the disease early. However, as the cancer grows and progresses, it may produce the following signs and symptoms:
- Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: One of the most common symptoms of cervical cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding. This may include bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause. Any unexplained vaginal bleeding should be reported to a healthcare provider.
- Unusual Vaginal Discharge: Cervical cancer can cause changes in vaginal discharge, including an increase in the amount of discharge, a change in its color or odor, or the presence of blood.
- Pain During Sex: As cervical cancer grows, it can cause pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse. This is known as dyspareunia and may be an indication of cervical cancer.
- Pelvic Pain: In advanced stages of cervical cancer, the tumor may press on nearby structures and cause pelvic pain or discomfort.
- Urinary Problems: As cancer grows, it can put pressure on the bladder and cause urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, pain or burning during urination, or difficulty urinating.
- Leg Swelling: In rare cases, cervical cancer can cause swelling in the legs due to lymphatic system blockage.
It is important to note that many of these symptoms can also be caused by conditions other than cervical cancer. However, any unexplained symptoms should be reported to a healthcare provider for further evaluation.
It is also important to remember that early-stage cervical cancer may not produce any symptoms. This is why regular cervical cancer screenings, such as Pap and HPV tests, are so crucial for detecting the disease early when it is most treatable.
If you experience any of these symptoms or have concerns about cervical cancer, speaking with a healthcare provider is important. They can perform a pelvic exam, Pap test, or HPV test to check for abnormalities or refer you for further testing or treatment if necessary.
How to Diagnose Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is typically diagnosed through screening tests and diagnostic procedures. Screening tests, such as Pap tests and HPV tests, detect abnormal cells or the presence of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can cause cervical cancer. If abnormalities are detected, further diagnostic tests may be recommended to confirm the presence of cervical cancer.
One common diagnostic procedure is a colposcopy, which involves using a special instrument called a colposcope to examine the cervix more closely and biopsy any abnormal areas. A biopsy involves removing a small tissue sample from the cervix and examining it under a microscope to determine if cancer cells are present.
If cancer is confirmed, additional imaging tests, such as CT scans or MRI scans, may be recommended to determine the extent of the cancer and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.
In some cases, a cone biopsy may be performed to remove a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix for further evaluation. This can help determine the stage and extent of the cancer and guide treatment decisions.
It is important to note that abnormal Pap test or HPV test results do not necessarily mean that cervical cancer is present. These tests can detect precancerous changes or early-stage cervical cancer, but further diagnostic testing is typically needed to confirm a diagnosis.
It is also important for women to continue to receive regular cervical cancer screenings, even if they have received a negative result in the past. Cervical cancer can develop at any time, and regular screening is the best way to detect it early and improve the chances of successful treatment.
Cervical cancer diagnosis involves a combination of screening tests, diagnostic procedures, and imaging tests to detect and evaluate the presence of cancer. CoreMed Plus is dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care to women, including cervical cancer screening and diagnostic services, to ensure the earliest possible detection and treatment of cervical cancer.
Treatment of Cervical Cancer
The treatment for cervical cancer depends on the cancer stage and other individual factors such as age, overall health, and personal preferences. Treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy.
- Surgery: Early-stage cervical cancer may be treated with surgery to remove the cancerous cells. This may involve removing the cervix and uterus in a procedure called a hysterectomy. In some cases, it may be possible to perform a more conservative surgery that only removes the cancerous cells and preserves fertility.
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells. This treatment may be used alone or in combination with surgery or chemotherapy. External beam radiation therapy may be used to target the cancer from outside the body, or internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy) may be used to deliver radiation directly to the site of the cancer.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be used alone or in combination with other treatments. Chemotherapy may be given before surgery or radiation therapy to shrink the tumor or after to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy is a newer type of treatment that uses drugs to target specific molecules or pathways involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. It may be combined with other treatments or as a standalone treatment for advanced cervical cancer.
- Palliative Care: Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life for people with advanced or metastatic cervical cancer. This may involve managing pain, providing emotional support, and addressing other symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, or difficulty sleeping.
It is important to note that treatment for cervical cancer may have side effects, such as fatigue, nausea, and hair loss. However, many side effects can be managed with medications or other therapies. It is also important to discuss any concerns or questions about treatment options with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for individual needs and circumstances.
Regular cervical cancer screenings, such as Pap tests and HPV tests, can help detect cervical cancer early when it is most treatable. Women should talk to their healthcare provider about when to begin screening. The treatment for cervical cancer may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or palliative care, depending on the stage of the cancer and individual factors.
Regular cervical cancer screenings can help detect the disease early when it is most treatable, and it is important to discuss any concerns or questions about treatment options with a healthcare provider.
How CoreMed Plus Can Help You with Cervical Cancer Screenings
CoreMed Plus offers a range of cervical cancer screening options, including Pap tests and HPV tests, to help women detect any abnormal cell changes or the presence of the human papillomavirus (HPV) early on. Our experienced healthcare providers work with each patient to determine the most appropriate screening schedule based on their risk factors and medical history.
Our healthcare professionals also provide follow-up diagnostic services to evaluate abnormal findings promptly. We utilize the latest diagnostic technology, including colposcopy and biopsy, to provide accurate and timely cervical cancer diagnosis.
In addition to screening and diagnostic services, CoreMed Plus provides education and resources to help women prevent cervical cancer. This includes information on risk factors, HPV vaccines, and lifestyle changes that can reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer.
At CoreMed Plus, we are committed to empowering women with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain their health and well-being. We strive to provide a welcoming and supportive environment where women can receive personalized care and attention from our team of dedicated healthcare professionals.
By choosing CoreMed Plus for cervical cancer screenings, women can take an active role in their healthcare and ensure they receive the most comprehensive and advanced screening and diagnostic services available. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest quality care to women and helping them maintain optimal health throughout their lives.
Meet Dr. Mark Richter
I grew up in Florida as the oldest of five sons. After earning my degree from the University of Florida, I pursued my medical education in the Dominican Republic.
In 1988 I began my Family Practice Residency at the “old” Pontiac General Hospital. I have been providing medical care to the same community since 1991, first in Waterford and later at our current location in White Lake, where I continue to practice today. I take pride in being board certified by the American Academy of Family Physicians and remain committed to Primary Care.
I am passionate about promoting a healthy lifestyle, including a proper “balanced” diet, exercise, exposure to healthy outdoor activities, and achieving work-life balance. I married my Medical School Sweetheart, Barbara, and we are fortunate to have two adult children and a granddaughter. We have been residents of Oakland County since 1988 and enjoy all that Michigan has to offer.
Meet Briahnnon Long NP-BC
Briahnnon Long, NP-BC, graduated from Oakland University in 2009 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and worked as a nurse in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit. She then pursued her Master of Science in Nursing. She graduated from The University of Michigan Flint in 2020 and became board certified by The American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner.
She works in the acute care setting as a hospitalist and in the subacute care setting at a skilled nursing facility. She has special interests in health and wellness, preventative medicine, and chronic care management in the primary care setting. She loves being outdoors, cheering on her husband and two children in hockey, and camping and boating in the summer.
Contact Information
If you’re ready to take charge of your health and embark on a journey toward a healthier, happier life, we invite you to contact us today. Our compassionate and knowledgeable staff is excited to take your call and help you on your health journey. We will work closely with you to develop a customized treatment plan that is right for you and provide the support and care you need every step of the way.
Don’t let health concerns hold you back – contact CoreMed Plus today and let us help you achieve optimal health and wellness. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you achieve a healthier, happier life.
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: +1 248-666-6005
