Cervical cancer symptoms mimic so many other ailments that they often go unnoticed. These symptoms are passed off as PMS or ovulation pains. Sometimes, women out of embarrassment and ignorance do not opt for correct diagnosis until it has reached an advanced stage and the situation becomes critical.
Cervical cancer forms in the organ connecting the uterus and vagina, i.e., the tissues of cervix. Cervix is at the lower end of the uterus (womb) and above the vagina. Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers that affect the women’s reproductive organs.
It is usually caused by HPV (human papilloma virus) and is a sexually transmitted infection.
Symptoms
Cervical cancer develops slowly, it does not have any specific symptoms at an early stage. When it reaches at an advanced stage, one or more of the following symptoms may be noticed:
1. Abnormal vaginal bleeding
a. Longer and heavier bleeding during periods.
b. Bleeding apart from the regular menstrual cycle.
c. Bleeding after an intercourse.
d. Bleeding after menopause.
2. Unusual and increased vaginal discharge. This can be foul smelling, watery, thick or can contain mucus.
3. Pelvic pain. This is not related to normal pains during the menstrual period. It can range from mild to severe aches that can last for hours.
4. Pain during urination. This is a sign of advanced cervical cancer when it has already spread to the bladder.
5. Pain during intercourse.
Diagnosis
Whenever women experience any of the above symptoms they should consult a doctor. Doctors seriously recommend for women to have regular Pap test or HPV DNA test to reduce the risk of cervical cancer as this leads to an early diagnosis and the treatment is more likely to be successful. These are simple tests to find cervical cancer or any abnormal cells that might lead to it. The doctor might suggest some other tests if any abnormal test results are found, like a biopsy or colposcopy.
Treatment
If the biopsy result shows the presence of abnormal cells, the doctor might suggest treatments based on the size of tumor and growth of cancer. If the woman is of child bearing age, she should consult the doctor about the possibility of getting pregnant in future. Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are the treatment options available to women suffering from cervical cancer. The pros and cons of all should be understood carefully and proper consultation from doctors should be taken before opting for any.
Prevention
The risk of cervical cancer can be reduced if proper measures are taken to avoid HPV infection.
1. Use a condom every time you have sex.
2. Delay first intercourse – having sex before the age of 18 increases the risk of HPV infection as the immature cells are more susceptible to HPV.
3. Avoid multiple sexual partners at the same time.
4. Avoid smoking, as cigarettes increases the risk of precancerous changes.
Frequently asked questions
1. When to seek medical advice?
If you experience any of the above mentioned symptoms, you should consult a doctor and undergo diagnosis.
2. Is cervical cancer contagious?
Cervical cancer is not contagious.This is a myth which should not be believed.
3. Are HPV infections treatable?
These are not treatable with any kind of medications and the best way to avoid it is through prevention.
4. How often should one go for a Pap screening test?
This depends on the age of the individual and as recommended by the doctor according to the health of the women. The women below 21 years are usually not required to take this test. After that the screening can be done every 2 years till the age of 29. After 30 years of age, the test can be taken every 3 years.
5. Should a pregnant woman go for a Pap test?
A pregnant lady could go for a Pap test and this does not increase the risk of abortion.