January is celebrated as Cervical Awareness Month. This month is dedicated to spreading information about cervical health and preventive measures against cervical cancer and other reproductive health issues. For the uninitiated, a healthy cervix is important for both overall well-being and fertility, and lifestyle plays a significant role in determining a woman’s cervical health. While some lifestyle habits can improve cervical health and increase the chances of fertility, others can hinder it.
In an exclusive interaction with the editorial team of Onlymyhealth, our expert, Dr. Soma Varsha, IVF Specialist, Ferty9 Fertility Center – Vijayawada, shed light on some essential tips to promote a strong and healthy cervix. Here is what he shared with us.
1. Balanced nutrition
A balanced diet full of nutrients is very important for cervical health. Nutrients like folate, vitamins C and E, and beta-carotene help regenerate cervical cells and strengthen the immune system. Dr. Varsha emphasized that one of the best ways to increase fertility is to eat a balanced diet. For effective results, include the following in your daily diet:
- Folate, found in green leafy vegetables, beans, and citrus fruits, prevents cervical dysplasia, which is an early stage of cervical cancer.
- Vitamin C, found in berries, oranges, and peppers, supports the immune system and aids in healing.
- Beta-carotene, found in carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach, protects cervical tissue.
- Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, reduce inflammation and maintain hormonal balance.
2. Hydrate
Second, stay hydrated! Drinking enough water daily helps ensure that the cervical mucus, which helps sperm move efficiently through the reproductive tract, is healthy and produced in sufficient quantities. “A minimum of eight glasses of water a day is the norm for proper mucus production and reproductive health,” explained Dr. Varsha.
3. Practice safe sex and get checked regularly.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as human papillomavirus (HPV) can dramatically affect cervical health. HPV is the most common cause of cervical cancer, which is why frequent Pap smears and HPV vaccination are recommended. In addition, Dr. Varsha recommends:
- Use barrier protection (condoms or dental dams) to prevent sexually transmitted diseases.
- Schedule a Pap smear and HPV test as recommended by your doctor.
- Get the HPV vaccine if you haven’t already.
4. Regular exercise and a healthy weight
Regular exercise helps regulate hormones and has a positive effect on the immune system, factors important for cervical health. According to Dr. Warsh, studies also show that excess body weight, especially in the stomach area, is associated with increased estrogen levels and has been attributed to cervical complications.
Therefore, for cervical health and overall well-being, you should do at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as walking, yoga, or swimming, five times a week.
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5. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Smoking is one of the most common risk factors for cervical cancer because it lowers a person’s immunity, thus perpetuating HPV infections. Similarly, alcoholism can affect hormone levels and compromise immune system function.
Experts warn you to quit smoking to reduce your risk of cervical cell abnormalities and to limit your alcohol consumption.
6. Manage stress effectively
Chronic stress negatively affects hormonal balance and the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections and maintain reproductive health. If you are someone who is often stressed, use stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and proper sleep to positively impact your cervical health.
Bottom line
Cervical health is an important part of your overall reproductive and fertility health. By choosing a sedentary lifestyle, you are only increasing your chances of cervical problems and decreasing your chances of getting pregnant. So during this Cervical Awareness Month, take some time to focus on your health and schedule a screening appointment to take preventative steps toward your health. By making small but meaningful changes, you can take control of your cervical health and pave the way for a healthier future.
