One of the core functions of the Australia Cervical Cancer Foundation is the educational programs and awareness campaigns we run. Find out more below.
HPV & Me Awareness Program for Schools
Community and workplace presentations
Cervical Cancer Awareness Week
“Knowing your cervix” is also about empowering women and people with a cervix to understand the risks associated with cervical cancer, symptoms of cervical cancer, the importance of HPV vaccination and regular cervical screening.
Cervical cancer does not usually carry any external symptoms until it is in advanced stages, and so the best way to prevent cervical cancer is through Cervical Screening Tests (previously known as Pap test or Pap smear).
However, if symptoms occur, they may include:
These symptoms can also be caused by other more common conditions. It is important to see your doctor if symptoms are ongoing. If necessary, your General Practitioner (GP) will refer you for further diagnostic tests.
ACCF is pleased to partner with healthdirect to offer medical information about cervical health.
The cervical health information line is a confidential service staffed by qualified medical professionals.
The line operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
For a complete list of terms relating to cervical health and cervical cancer, please see our glossary of terms.
Your cervical health is so important. ACCF is here to provide information and support to women, people with a cervix and their families. The following information is compiled in our Faces of Cervical Cancer support booklet. Please call ACCF on 1300 727 630 anytime for further information, support, or resources.
Most cases of cervical cancer develop from contracting the human papillomavirus HPV. As this is a virus you contract; there is currently little evidence that you are any more predisposed to developing cervical cancer if your mother or grandmother had it.
Currently, there is no cure for cervical cancer. There are effective treatments such as diverse types of surgery and chemotherapy that can rid the body of cancer completely, as is the case with all types of cancer. Like most forms of cancer, the effectiveness of these treatments is dependent on the stage and type of the cancer.
It depends on the case, the stage of the cancer and what is deemed the most appropriate treatment based on a variety of factors. As each person is different, it is important to discuss this with your healthcare professional.
It is unlikely you will contract HPV if you have not had any type of sexual intercourse. However, as HPV is spread through skin-to-skin contact with the genitals it is possible that other types of sexual contact could spread HPV.
If you have had any sexual contact with the genitals, then it increases your risk of contracting HPV.
Currently, there is no conclusive evidence that open-mouthed kissing with tongue (French kissing) can transfer an infection.
(07) 3177 1099 (within Australia)
61 7 3177 1099 (outside Australia)
PO Box 1008, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006