Cervical cancer is a growing problem in South Africa and may be increasing due to the widespread practice of unprotected sex. In a large number of cases of cervical cancer, a virus known as the human papilloma virus (HPV) plays a significant role in the development of this cancer. While cervical cancer is most often seen in women around the age of 30 years, the increasing trend of teen sex may predispose younger women, possibly in their early 20′s to develop cervical cancer.
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After conception, the fertilised egg exits the fallopian tubes and attaches itself to the lining of the uterus where the fetus will grow and develop. In most cases, the attachment or implantation occurs on the endometrium of the uterus and the fetus has enough space to grow as the uterus stretches and expands. However in an ectopic pregnancy, the fertilised egg does not attach to the endometrium of the uterus. Implantation may occur elsewhere, usually in the fallopian tubes (tubal implantation or ‘tubal pregnancy’) and less commonly in the cervix, ovary or abdomen.
The abortion pill should not be confused with the morning after pill as it is intended for use within the first 8 weeks of pregnancy whereas the morning after pill should only be used within 3 to 5 days after intercourse. The abortion pill, mifepristone and misoprostol, is an approved pregnancy termination method in South Africa and can only be prescribed by a medical doctor.
