Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women around the world. In the last few years, WHO has been running many awareness programs to make people aware of cervical cancer and its prevention. It is a malignancy originating in the cervix and is noted as the most common type of cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in more than 35 countries. 

It is one of the most common cancers among women and is curable if detected early. Early detection, vaccination, and lifestyle changes can effectively reduce the chances. As we navigate the modern health challenges, ayurveda offers insights into the prevention, and overall wellbeing to fight against this deadly disease. By incorporating an ayurvedic lifestyle and practices, one can not only prevent diseases like cervical cancer but also improve the chances of survival after diagnosis and treatment. Ayurvedic practices also make one strong enough to fight the aftereffects of cancer treatment and reduce its overall side effects. 

Let us delve into cervical cancer awareness and explore how an Ayurvedic lifestyle can reduce the risks of cervical cancer and other lifestyle-related diseases. 

Understanding Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer develops when cells in the cervix grow uncontrollably. The cervix is the part of the female reproductive system which connects the uterus to the vaginal canal. The human papillomavirus(HPV) is the primary cause of cervical cancer. There are more than 100 forms of human papillomavirus, out of which 14 are highly cancer-causing.  

While HPV infections are common in women in their birthing years not all lead to cervical cancer. HPV strains commonly clear out from the female body without any medical intervention and can last up to 2 years in the body. When these strains last longer, they integrate with other cells developing cervical cancer. 

Factors like weakened immunity, smoking, poor hygiene, and a sedentary lifestyle are the primary contributing factors to the development of this disease which can be prevented by adopting an Ayurvedic lifestyle. 

Signs and Symptoms

The major symptoms of cervical cancer appear at a later stage which is why a lot of emphasis is given on regular screening like pep smears to identify the disease. This test can not only identify the diseases but also detect any cell altercations that signify the development of the disease. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. The most common signs and symptoms of cervical cancer are as follows:

• Persitant pelvic pain 
• Pain during intercourse
• Vaginal bleeding between periods
• Bleeding after intercourse
• Vaginal bleeding in menopausal women
• Vaginal discharge with a foul odor
• Frequent and painful urination
• Unusually longer and heavier periods

Additionally, many of these symptoms are similar to other reproductive health issues and often get neglected leading to high risks. It is vital to consult a gynecologist immediately if these symptoms appear. 

Risk factors of Cervical Cancer

Although cervical cancer is common, not every woman is at risk of the disease. Here are some risk factors that increase the chances of cervical cancer:

 

• Multiple sexual partners
• Persistent HPV infection
• Giving birth to many children
• Sexual intercourse at a very young age
• Week immune system
• Sexually transmitted diseases
• Excessive use of contraceptive pills
• AIDS
• Smoking and a sedentary lifestyle
• Spouse having multiple sexual partners
• History of cervical cancer in close relatives

One can always avoid most of these risk factors by being mindful of safe sex practices, regular screenings, and adopting a healthy lifestyle. A healthy lifestyle is a transformative factor in lowering the risk of cervical cancer. This is where Ayurveda emerges as a holistic ally.

How Ayurveda Can Help With Cervical Cancer Prevention

Ayurveda, the science of life, has been around for centuries. Although modern medicine is yet to find the reason for the occurrence of cancer, ayurveda believes that cancer is caused by the imbalance of body doshas. According to Ayurvedic philosophy, any disease arises from a disturbance in balance, which may be caused by lifestyle factors, environmental influences, mental stress, or an accumulation of toxins (ama) within the body.

Read: Understanding Cancer Through Ayurveda: Root Causes and Prevention

Ayurveda explains the body is governed by three primary energies or doshas: Vata (air and space), Pitta (fire and water), and Kapha (earth and water). The imbalance of these primary energies is believed to be the root cause of cervical cancer. For cervical cancer prevention, Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of detoxification to eliminate toxins- Ama from the body, strengthen the immune system – the body Ojas and maintain hormonal balance.

By understanding individual constitutions or Prakriti and aligning them with nature’s rhythms, Ayurveda empowers individuals to achieve optimal health. Here are some Ayurvedic practices that can contribute to a healthier lifestyle which is one way to reduce the risk of cervical cancer and promote overall well-being.

Ayurvedic Lifestyle for Cervical Cancer Prevention

The Ayurvedic lifestyle has three primary pillars- eating healthy, staying active, and sleeping peacefully. But today’s environment has forced people to live a sedentary lifestyle, have unhealthy food habits, and too much stress. Additionally, exposure to too many chemicals has left them vulnerable to diseases. Here are a few things one can follow to adopt a healthier lifestyle to lessen the chances of cervical cancer and live disease-free.

Diet to improve overall immunity levels

Diet is one of the three pillars of good health in Ayurveda. Healthy food ultimately leads to good immunity and good health. A balanced diet tailored to one’s doshas can help maintain optimum health, keep the digestive system healthy, and improve metabolism and nutrient absorption. 

• Focus on fresh produce and seasonal foods according to doshas. A balanced diet should include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and leafy greens rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients that combat free radicals. 
• Ayurveda focuses on the importance of spices in a balanced diet. These spices are not only beneficial for digestion but also contain micronutrients essential for body growth. Spices like turmeric, ginger, garlic, and cinnamon can make a meal tastier and healthier at the same time. For example- turmeric, a common spice used in curries has an active compound curcumin known for its anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.
• Processed foods, refined sugars, fried items, and artificial additives lead to toxin accumulation and should be avoided at any cost. 
• Warm water and herbal teas like tulsi, neem, or ashwagandha tea are great for hydration and cleansing the body.

Regular Exercise to stay physically fit

The second pillar of good health is staying physically fit. 30 minutes of physical activity, everyday can do wonders for one’s body. Exercise not only improves metabolism but also releases endorphins that improve overall mood and sense of well-being. Regular exercise according to doshas can ensure balance and proper blood circulation. 

• Vata-type individuals should engage in moderate exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga. 
• Pitta-type individuals should indulge in moderate cardio, jogging, hiking, etc. 
• Kapha-type individuals can work in intense activities like HIIT, aerobics, Krav Mega, etc. 

Stress Management to improve sleep quality

Sleep is the third pillar of good health and stress is the biggest enemy of sleep. Stress can also weaken the immune system, slow digestion, cause fatigue, and accelerate aging. It is also one of the primary causes of risks associated with lifestyle diseases including cancer.  Ayurveda offers various tools for stress management and improving sleep quality including:

• Yoga asanas like Bhujangasana and pranayama techniques like Nadi Shodhana can alleviate stress and improve circulation.
• Daily meditation helps calm the mind and enhances emotional resilience to improve sleep quality. 
• Ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha, Jatamsi, Shankhpushpi, and Brahmi combat stress, promote vitality and improve sleep. 

Detoxification to get rid of unwanted toxins from the body

Our body can accumulate toxins by eating unhealthy food, lack of adequate sleep, or physical activity. Accumulated toxins lead to dosha imbalance, weaken the immune system, and disrupt cellular functions ultimately causing deadly diseases like cervical cancer. Ayurveda believes in regular every day at-home detox and using panchakarma therapies to remove accumulated toxins. 

Daily at-home detox therapies include nasya, oil pulling, abhyanga, and many more that can help individuals detox in the comfort of their homes. 

Hormonal Balance 

The female reproductive cycle goes through many hormonal changes every day. Hormonal imbalances can create an environment conducive to diseases. Ayurvedic practices aim to regulate hormones naturally by using herbal and natural ingredients to avoid health issues like cervical cancer. 

Avoiding Carcinogens

Ayurveda also believes that unhealthy and polluted environments, chemically laden food, exposure to smoke, and other carcinogens can create an imbalance in body doshas, deplete immunity, and cause many unwanted diseases like cancer. The best way to prevent cervical cancer is to avoid these carcinogens:

• Use natural or Ayurvedic products for skincare, cleaning, and personal hygiene to reduce contact with harmful chemicals and minimize chemical exposure. 
• Tobacco contains carcinogens that significantly increase the risk of cervical cancer. Avoid self and passive smoking. 
• Practice safe sex and maintain intimate hygiene to prevent HPV infections.

Ayurvedic products made with 100% natural ingredients for skincare, cleaning, and personal hygiene are available on Ayurveda megastores. Using natural herbal ayurvedic products is the best way to keep chemical exposure to a minimum and avoid unwanted carcinogens. 

Integrating Ayurveda with Modern Medicine

Ayurveda is a centuries-old healthcare system. But today with too much pollution and chemicals in our lives, the diseases have also mutated. While Ayurveda provides holistic care through lifestyle changes and maintaining overall health, it is essential to integrate Ayurveda solutions with modern medicine in cases like cervical cancer. 

As cervical cancer is more prominent in perimenopausal women between the age of 35-55, they should get regular screenings, vaccinations, and consultations with healthcare providers as a part of their health routine. Women with close relatives or a history of cervical cancer in their family should stay more vigilant to changing menstrual cycle or any other changes in the body to detect cervical cancer in the early stages. 

Additionally, modern medicine has been successful in creating the HPV vaccine which is a proven method to prevent cervical cancer. This vaccine can be administered in young girls after the age of 9 to prevent cervical cancer. With an ayurvedic lifestyle, HPV vaccine, and self-awareness, one can easily create a robust defense against this disease. Collaboration between traditional and modern approaches ensures comprehensive care and prevention.

Prioritize Your Health with Ayurveda

Cervical cancer awareness is not just about understanding the disease; it’s about taking proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. Ayurveda always emphasizes the prevention of disease. Ayurveda practitioners focus on improving the body’s natural self-defense to prevent the onset of any disease including cervical cancer. A healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet, and a good amount of sleep can keep the doshas balanced and improve overall vitality to prevent this disease. By adopting Ayurvedic principles, you can:

• Strengthen your immune system.
• Maintain hormonal balance.
• Detoxify your body and mind.
• Reduce stress and enhance resilience.

Final Thoughts

Ayurveda is a holistic healthcare science with an approach to prevention. The timeless Ayurvedic wisdom teaches how to live a disease-free life. By embracing the Ayurvedic principles into daily life, you can lower the risk of deadly diseases like cancer and other lifestyle-related diseases. 

As the Ayurveda Megastore spreads awareness about cervical cancer, let us also try to spread the message of Ayurveda- balance, harmony, and prevention are the keys to lasting health. Take charge of your health today, embrace the age-old wisdom of Ayurveda, and combine it with a modern perspective to fight against cervical cancer. Together, we can create a world where cervical cancer and other lifestyle diseases are no longer a threat to women’s health.