That morning, the air around the Belimbing Village Office felt fresh. The village atmosphere, which was usually quiet, suddenly became busy with the presence of women who gathered to attend an important seminar on reproductive health. They came with faces full of hope and a little anxiety. Wanting to get information and health services that were very important to them—IVA tests.
On Tuesday, August 20, 2024, 25 women from various backgrounds gathered in the village office hall. They were administrators and members of the Women's Social Entrepreneurs Group (KWPS) of Lampion Merah Abadi, RT heads, RW heads, PKK members, Posyandu cadres, religious leaders, and Jumantik cadres. All had the same goal: to gain a better understanding of the IVA test. An important procedure for early detection of cervical cancer, and some of them were about to undergo the test.
Dr. Dewi Yuliana Lestari, a doctor from the Tangerang District Health Office, was invited as the main speaker. With a straightforward and empathetic explanation, dr. Dewi explained how dangerous non-communicable diseases such as cervical cancer and breast cancer are. Cancer, an invisible but deadly disease, is often realized too late because its symptoms are not obvious. With a firm but calming tone, she explained the importance of early detection through routine examinations such as IVA tests and SADARI (Self Breast Examination).
"Breast cancer and cervical cancer are real threats to women. Both can be prevented and detected early if we are willing to take the time to check ourselves," said Dr. Dewi, while showing simple ways to recognize the early signs of both types of cancer.
This seminar was not just about listening, but also interacting. Participants were given the opportunity to ask questions directly to Dr. Dewi. The questions that arose reflected the various concerns they felt. For example, Mrs. Enggit, who married at a young age, felt anxious about the risk of getting cancer as she got older. Dr. Dewi patiently explained that although the risk existed, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and doing regular screenings could help prevent unwanted things.
Another question came from Mrs. Herdah who asked about the possibility of getting the HPV vaccine after her IVA test result was negative. Dr. Dewi explained that the HPV vaccine can be given at any time, as long as the test result shows no abnormalities. "The HPV vaccine is a very important preventive measure, especially if it is given before infection occurs," she added.
After the Q&A session, the moment that the participants had been waiting for arrived, namely the implementation of the IVA test. Midwife Vika Pratiwi from the Salembaran Jaya Health Center, assisted by Mrs. Lilis and Mrs. Ida, was in charge of carrying out this examination. One by one, the participants who had registered entered the examination room. Although there was a little tension, many of them felt relieved after learning that this test was not as painful as they had imagined.
Of the 25 participants, 20 people successfully underwent the examination. The results showed that all participants were declared negative for cervical cancer. Although there were three people who were detected to have inflammation and had lumps that required further examination at the hospital.
At the end of the event, several participants shared their experiences. Mrs. Erika, for example, was initially afraid to undergo this test. "I heard that the IVA test was painful, but it turned out not to be. The examination was fast and the results were good," she said with a relieved smile.
Mrs. Ong Castari, who was brought along by her sister, also felt similar concerns. However, after listening to Dr. Dewi's explanation and undergoing the test, she felt calmer. "I realized that all women should do early detection of cancer. My IVA test result was negative, so I felt relieved and happy," she said.
This seminar not only provides knowledge, but also empowers women of Belimbing Village to take important steps in maintaining their health.
With the support of experienced medical personnel and increasing awareness, these women are now more confident in living a healthy life and free from the threat of cancer. This activity is proof that with the right knowledge and preventive measures, women's reproductive health can be more assured. They can enjoy life with a better quality.
