Can gynaecological cancers be prevented? Expert insights from Mr Jafaru Abu

Gynaecological cancers affect the reproductive organs and include cancers of the cervix, womb, ovaries, vulva and vagina. Together, they are among the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. So can you prevent gynaecological cancers? No cancer can be prevented completely. However, there are several proven ways to lower your risk, or to find cancer early, when treatment is most likely to succeed.

Mr Jafaru Abu, consultant gynaecologist and gynaecological cancer surgeon, shares four practical steps every woman can take.

1. Go for regular screening and cervical smears

One of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer is regular screening. A smear test checks for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) and for abnormal cells that could, in time, lead to cancer. Finding these changes early means they can be treated, and early treatment can often prevent cervical cancer altogether. If your result shows changes, our abnormal cervical smears page explains what happens next.

2. Have the HPV vaccine

HPV is a leading cause of cervical cancer, and it is also linked to some vulval and vaginal cancers. Vaccination against HPV significantly reduces the risk of developing cervical and other HPV-related cancers. It works best when given to girls and boys before they become sexually active, which is why it is offered at school. If you missed it, ask your GP whether you are still eligible. Our post on the role of HPV in cervical cancer explains more.

3. Make healthy lifestyle changes

A healthy lifestyle is one of the best ways to help prevent gynaecological cancers. Mr Abu recommends a balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables and whole grains, staying physically active, and not smoking. Regular exercise helps you keep to a healthy weight, which lowers the risk of womb and ovarian cancers. Stopping smoking also helps your body clear HPV. Our post on how diet and lifestyle affect gynaecological cancer risk has practical ideas.

4. Know your family history and consider genetic advice

If gynaecological cancers run in your family, genetic counselling may be helpful. Inherited gene changes, such as those linked to ovarian and breast cancer, can increase your risk. Knowing your family history helps you make informed decisions about your health, including more frequent checks or, for some women, risk-reducing surgery. Our post on how genetics play a role in gynaecological cancers explains what testing involves.

Do not ignore symptoms

Prevention also means acting quickly when something changes. See your doctor about unusual vaginal bleeding, especially after sex or after the menopause, persistent bloating, pelvic pain, or itching, lumps or changes to the skin of the vulva. These symptoms usually have a less serious cause, but checking them early gives you the best chance if they do not.

Mr Abu's advice

“While some risk factors are beyond control, taking proactive measures like these can significantly reduce the risk of gynaecological cancers.”

Your age and genes cannot be changed, but screening, vaccination, a healthy lifestyle and awareness of your family history are all within your reach. Taken together, these steps are the best way to help prevent gynaecological cancers or to find them early.

The World Health Organization explains how cervical cancer can be prevented, and Cancer Research UK describes the causes of cancer and how to reduce your risk. For more information, or to book a consultation with Mr Jafaru Abu, please contact us.