Protect Your Health: Cervical Cancer Screenings at Orchid Health Hoodland Clinic

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month — a time to focus on prevention, early detection, and caring for your long-term health. At Orchid Health Hoodland Clinic, we believe proactive, preventive care is one of the most powerful tools we have to keep our community healthy.

Cervical cancer is largely preventable when detected early through regular screenings, yet many people delay or skip these important exams. Our Hoodland team is here to change that by providing care that is compassionate, confidential, and centered on you.

Why Cervical Cancer Screening Matters

Cervical cancer typically develops slowly, beginning with abnormal changes in cervical cells. Regular screening allows our providers at Orchid Health Hoodland Clinic to identify these changes early — often long before cancer develops.

Screenings are a proven way to reduce both the incidence of cervical cancer and related deaths. When abnormal cells are found early, treatment is often simpler and more effective.

Common risk factors include:

• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection

• Smoking

• A weakened immune system

• Family history of cervical cancer

By identifying abnormal cells early, cervical cancer screenings can prevent cancer from developing altogether or ensure timely treatment when needed.

Recommended Screening Guidelines

At Orchid Health Hoodland Clinic, we follow U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines while personalizing care for each patient:

• Ages 21–29: Pap test every three years

• Ages 30–65:

  • Pap test every three years, or

  • HPV test every five years, or

  • Co-testing (Pap + HPV) every five years

• Over age 65: Screening may no longer be necessary if prior results were normal, but this should be discussed with your provider.

If you have higher risk factors, you may need earlier or more frequent screening. Our Hoodland clinicians take time to understand your health history and work with you to create a screening plan that fits your needs and comfort level.

Cervical Cancer Screening Options at Hoodland Clinic

Orchid Health Hoodland Clinic offers several cervical cancer screening options, including:

• Pap Test (Pap Smear): Detects abnormal cervical cells before they become cancerous

• HPV Test: Identifies high-risk HPV strains linked to cervical cancer

• Co-Testing: Combines Pap and HPV testing for more comprehensive screening

• HPV Self-Collection (Vaginal Swab): In some cases, patients may qualify for HPV screening without a Pap test. This private, easy-to-use self-swab can be completed at home or in the clinic. Talk with your provider to see if this option is right for you.

Our team is committed to making screenings as comfortable, respectful, and stress-free as possible. We understand these appointments can feel intimidating, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Local Care, Close to Home

As your local clinic, Orchid Health Hoodland Clinic is proud to offer preventive care close to home. Our focus is on building trusted relationships, providing clear education, and making sure you feel heard and supported — not rushed.

Whether this is your first screening or you’re due for a routine check, our team is here to help you feel confident in your care.

Take Action This January

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect time to prioritize your health. Regular screenings save lives, and early detection makes all the difference.

If you’re due for a cervical cancer screening — or aren’t sure when your last one was — schedule an appointment with Orchid Health Hoodland Clinic today. Taking this simple step is an important way to protect your health now and in the years ahead.