Cervical Cancer Screening and the HPV Vaccine in Kenya: Who, When and What to Expect
Why cervical cancer screening matters, the tests used in Kenya (VIA, Pap smear, HPV test), who should screen and when, and the HPV vaccine for girls in Nakuru.
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- Primegala Clinical Team
- Published
- Reading time
- 4 min read
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Short answer: Cervical cancer can be prevented. Regular screening finds early changes in the cervix years before they become cancer, when they are simple to treat. In Kenya, women aged 25 to 49 are advised to screen, repeating as advised by a clinician, and women living with HIV should screen more often. The HPV vaccine, offered to girls from age 10 in Kenya's immunisation programme, adds further protection.
At a chama meeting, someone mentions that a friend's sister was recently diagnosed with cervical cancer. The room goes quiet, and later several women admit they have never been screened. Some didn't know they should; others were afraid of what the test involves. Screening is quicker and simpler than many people expect, and it is a proven way to prevent a serious cancer.
Why does screening matter?
Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers among women in Kenya. It is caused by long-lasting infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV), a very common virus passed on through sexual contact. Most HPV infections clear on their own. When an infection persists, it can slowly cause changes in the cells of the cervix (the neck of the womb) over many years.
Early changes usually cause no symptoms at all. That is why screening matters: it finds these changes while you still feel well, when treatment is simplest.
Which screening tests are used in Kenya?
| Test | How it's done | Results |
|---|---|---|
| VIA / VILI (visual inspection with acetic acid or Lugol's iodine) | A health worker applies a mild vinegar or iodine solution to the cervix and looks for changes | Usually the same visit |
| Pap smear | A small brush collects cells from the cervix, which are sent to a laboratory | Usually takes days to weeks |
| HPV test | A sample from the cervix or vagina is tested for high-risk HPV types | Depends on the laboratory |
WHO recommends HPV testing as the preferred method where it is available. Your clinician will advise which test suits you and what is available.
Who should be screened, and how often?
- Women aged 25 to 49 are advised to screen in Kenya. How often depends on the test used, usually every three to five years, as your clinician advises.
- Women living with HIV have a higher risk and are advised to start earlier and screen more often. Ask your HIV clinic or clinician about your schedule.
- Women over 49 who have never been screened should talk to a clinician.
- Any woman with symptoms should be checked, whatever her age or last result.
Symptoms you should not ignore
Get checked promptly if you notice:
- Bleeding after sex, between periods or after menopause
- Unusual or smelly vaginal discharge
- Pain during sex or persistent pelvic or lower back pain
These symptoms often have other causes, such as infections, but they should always be assessed.
What to expect at a screening visit
- It takes a few minutes. You lie on a couch and a speculum is gently placed to see the cervix.
- You can ask questions and ask for someone to be with you.
- Plan around your period. Screening is easier when you are not bleeding heavily.
- Avoid vaginal creams, douching and sex for a day or two beforehand, if you can.
- You may have light spotting afterwards. This is normal.
Results and follow-up
- Negative (normal) result: screen again when your clinician advises.
- Positive result: this usually means HPV or early cell changes, not cancer. You may need a further test or a simple treatment that removes or destroys the abnormal cells, often done as an outpatient.
- Suspected cancer: you will be referred promptly to a specialist facility for further tests and care.
Whatever your result, keep your records and attend every follow-up visit.
The HPV vaccine for girls
Kenya's national immunisation programme offers the HPV vaccine to girls from age 10, before most are exposed to the virus. It is given at health facilities and through school campaigns. Ask a health worker where your daughter can be vaccinated, and about catch-up if she missed it. The vaccine is recommended by WHO and has been used safely in many countries. Side effects, such as a sore arm, are usually mild.
How Primegala can help
If you are due for screening, have symptoms or have questions about the HPV vaccine, our general outpatient clinicians can advise you. Ask us about cervical screening and referral options when you visit, or book an appointment.
At Primegala
General Outpatient
Walk in any time for coughs, fevers, aches, infections and check-ups.
- Open 24 hours, every day, including public holidays
- Maili Sita, opposite Kiamaina Primary School
- SHA accepted for eligible services
Frequently asked questions
Does cervical cancer screening hurt?
Most women feel mild discomfort or pressure for a minute or two, but it should not be painful. Tell the health worker if you feel pain; they can stop or adjust.
Does a positive screening result mean I have cancer?
No. A positive result usually means HPV infection or early cell changes that are not cancer. It means you need further checks or simple treatment, which is why screening is so useful.
If my daughter has had the HPV vaccine, does she still need screening later?
Yes. The vaccine protects against the HPV types that cause most cervical cancers, but not all of them. Vaccinated women should still screen when they reach screening age.