Screening of Female Genital Cancers

Screening of female genital cancers consists of regular check-ups and tests aimed at the early diagnosis of cancers that may develop in female reproductive organs such as the cervix, uterus (endometrium), ovaries, vulva, and vagina. The main goal of these screening programs is to detect the disease before symptoms appear and to start treatment at the earliest stage. Early diagnosis significantly increases treatment success and prolongs life expectancy. Especially cervical cancer is a disease that can be almost completely prevented with regular Pap-smear and HPV tests. 97a

What is Screening of Female Genital Cancers?

Screening of female genital cancers is a health assessment performed with regular gynecological examinations, smear tests, HPV tests, ultrasonography, and advanced diagnostic methods if necessary. The aim is to identify precancerous lesions or early-stage diseases. Especially cervical cancer screening is one of the main components of women’s health protection programs worldwide. In addition, personal screening strategies are developed for uterine (endometrium) and ovarian cancers based on risk factors. 338

How is Screening of Female Genital Cancers Done?

The screening process is planned according to the patient’s age, sexual life status, family history, and existing risk factors.
– **Cervical cancer:** Starts at age 21. Pap-smear test is recommended every 3 years for women aged 21-29, and Pap-smear + HPV test together for women after age 30.
– **Uterine (endometrium) cancer:** In women with irregular bleeding, especially after menopause, endometrial thickness is measured by ultrasonography, and biopsy is performed if necessary.
– **Ovarian cancer:** There is no specific screening test; however, in high-risk groups (e.g., those with BRCA gene mutation), follow-up is done with ultrasound and tumor markers (CA-125).
– **Vulva and vaginal cancers:** Diagnosed with visual examination and biopsy. Regular gynecological examination is key in the early diagnosis of these cancers. 695e0f

Cervical Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer is the most frequently screened genital cancer. It is mostly caused by HPV infection. Pap-smear test examines cells from the cervix under a microscope to detect abnormal cell changes at an early stage. HPV test determines the presence and type of the virus. The combination of both tests (co-test) is the most reliable screening method. Regular tests should not be neglected even in vaccinated women. 489

Uterine (Endometrium) Cancer Screening

Uterine cancer usually presents with irregular or excessive vaginal bleeding in the postmenopausal period. Routine testing is not recommended for a specific age group for screening purposes; however, in women with risk factors (obesity, diabetes, hypertension, estrogen use), endometrial thickness is evaluated with transvaginal ultrasonography. If an increase in thickness is detected, an endometrial biopsy is performed. 978

Ovarian Cancer Screening

Ovarian cancer is a “silent progressing” disease and does not show symptoms in the early stages. Therefore, there is no specific screening test. However, in women with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer, or carrying BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutations, regular ultrasound and follow-up with tumor markers like CA-125 are recommended. Preventive surgical options may also be considered in high-risk groups. 9ec

Vulva and Vaginal Cancer Screening

Vulva and vaginal cancers usually occur at an advanced age. They may present with symptoms such as itching, color change, or sores in the early stages. Diagnosis is made through visual evaluation during a gynecological examination and biopsy if necessary. Since HPV infections may also play a role in these cancers, regular check-ups are important in this regard as well. 33f

Impact of HPV Vaccine on Screening

The HPV vaccine significantly reduces the incidence of cervical and other HPV-related genital cancers. However, since the vaccine does not provide protection against all HPV types, screening tests should continue in vaccinated women. When vaccination and screening are conducted together, protection reaches almost complete levels. 497

Screening Frequency and Follow-up

Each woman’s screening program should be arranged according to personal risk factors. Recommended follow-up intervals for women in the average risk group:
– Ages 21-29: Pap-smear every 3 years
– Ages 30-65: Pap-smear + HPV test every 5 years
– Over 65: Screening can be terminated if there have been regular negative results in the last 10 years.
Annual gynecological examination should not be neglected in postmenopausal women. 552

Practical Information About Screening of Female Genital Cancers
Type of Cancer	Screening Method	Starting Age	Interval
Cervix	Pap-smear + HPV test	21 years	Every 3-5 years
Uterus (Endometrium)	Ultrasound, biopsy	Post-menopause	Based on risk
Ovaries	Ultrasound, CA-125 test	In high-risk groups	Every 6-12 months
Vulva/Vagina	Gynecological examination, biopsy	Any age	Annual check-up

Prices for Screening of Female Genital Cancers

The prices of screening programs vary depending on the type of tests performed (smear, HPV test, ultrasound, biopsy), the technology used, and laboratory analyses. In our clinic, a personal screening plan is created by making a special evaluation for each patient. For current price information, please contact our clinic. 4de

Screening of female genital cancers is one of the most effective steps in health protection. Through regular check-ups, precancerous lesions can be treated, and life expectancy and quality can be maintained. 337