January is Cervical Health Month: Add Cervical Health to your Healthy New Year’s Resolution List
By Intimate Wellness Staff
How many people start off the year by creating that infamous list of New Year’s Resolutions?
According to research by Statista, more than half of Americans make resolutions- and health falls at number two, right after money goals. Of course, most people don’t stick with their resolutions purely because it seems overwhelming or, in some cases, they don’t know how to reach that pinnacle of health they desire. A study by the University of Scranton showed that approximately 80 percent of people fail to keep their new years resolutions. But what if you could start your January by just focusing on one element of your health? Intimate Wellness Shop suggests concentrating on what January is known for – Cervical Health Awareness Month.
Remembering Benefits Can Boost Your Willpower
One important aspect to keep in mind when being determined to stick to a resolution, especially one that focuses on your personal health, is to remember the benefits involved. While cervical health month spotlights cervical cancer prevention, screening, and treatment resources, it also advocates ways to care for your own cervix. The key benefit for keeping your cervix healthy is to prevent disease and pain.
Trust us, we realize that it’s hard to know where to start when it comes to something so weighty like cervical health. But we are here to guide you, help you, and give you some easy ways that you can care for your cervix starting today. And since 13,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year, it’s always a good time to give your cervix some extra love.
Start Traditionally
First, screening via Pap and human papilloma virus (HPV) tests, combined with vaccinations, are an important start. Make time to schedule your annual gynecological appointment. And open a dialogue with your physician if you have any concerns. The good news is, according to Cancer Health Magazine, cervical cancer is virtually always preventable with vaccination and regular gynecological tests and check-up’s.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, cervical cancer screening is used to find changes in the cells of the cervix that could lead to cancer. Screening with Pap and HPV tests are essential to cervical health. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has put together information on their screening recommendations and it’s available in a downloadable format here.
The CDC mandates that women between the ages of 21 and 65 should have a Pap test screening every three years at a minimum, while in 2018 the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommended individuals and clinicians use an annual gynecological screening visit as an opportunity to discuss other health problems and preventive measures.
Preventive Measures
Cervicitis is a condition commonly caused by a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and is characterized by discharge and inflammation. Sexually transmitted infections affect millions of people every year and cervicitis can be transported through intercourse with an infected person. Genital HPV is spread through skin-to-skin contact with an HPV-infected person. STI prevention is the best way to prevent cervicitis and HPV infections.
Condoms are extremely effective against the spread of sexually transmitted infections. To reduce the risk of cervicitis and HPV, it’s recommended to consistently use condoms.
LELO HEX™ condoms offer safeguard and strength with a unique hexagonal structure. Their thin design allows for a natural feeling and the 350 interconnected hexagons (yes, on each and every individual condom) let body warmth be transmitted between partners while providing effective intimate protection.
Another option is GLYDE ULTRA condoms, with an ultrathin style and a clean plant-based formula of thistle extract and sustainably harvested natural rubber latex. The GLYDE condom brand is known for non-toxic formulas made with natural ingredients.
While condoms can’t protect against sexually transmitted infections 100 percent of the time, there is no better preventative measure than a properly used condom during sexual relations.
Healthy Cervix Habits
While regular gynecological visits and condoms are a start toward cervical healthfulness, healthy partner communication practices can also have a positive impact on intimate wellness.
Healthy communication between couples allow both parties to be open and honest with each other. And while it may be an uncomfortable topic in new relationships, it is recommended to discuss sexually transmitted infections. To allow healthy relationships to continue to grow, speaking candidly about STI’s can help couple’s bond and move forward together.
Painful sex is another topic that’s often discussed in intimate couple conversations. Deep, penetrative thrusts can lead to pain, soreness or a bruised cervix.
Cervical Pain During Sex
According to mapping of the sensory cortical field of the cervix, there are few cervical nerve endings so discomfort will feel more like pressure or cramping. However, a study by The State University of New Jersey found that vaginocervical stimulation can lead to orgasm, which illustrates the sensitivity of the cervix.
If you’re experiencing painful sex, we recommend Ohnut, a pain relief intimate wearable that can help regulate how deep your partner thrusts by acting as a bumper. It’s meant to be worn at the base of a penis, or on the shaft of a toy, and has four linking rings that are buffers against cervical bumping.
Ohnut is wonderfully customizable with stretchy rings that can be added or removed to create the right pleasure combination for you and your partner. Deep thrusts can be enjoyable for both partners as Ohnut provides a clever way to cultivate intimate relationships.
Celebrate Cervical Health Month YOUR Way
While there is no perfect way to celebrate cervical health month, just consciously adding ‘Healthy Cervix’ to your new year’s resolution list is a positive step, and start, to this new decade.
Intimate Wellness Shop has curated the best possible products for your personal health. Please explore our thoughtful selection and share with us how you’re keeping your own cervix healthy.
Disclaimer: This is not medical advice, does not take the place of medical advice from your physician, and is not intended to treat or cure any disease. Patients should see a qualified medical provider for assessment and treatment.
