Cervical Cancer

What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer arises from the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. It is caused due to the abnormal growth of cells on the cervix. Initially, in cervical cancer, no symptoms are seen, but in the later stages symptoms start to appear. It is mainly caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV infection is very common and it may not cause serious symptoms, but in some cases it results in cervical cancer. Regular pap tests can spot changes in the cervical cells before they turn into cancer. 

Symptoms

Changes in the cervical cell typically have no symptoms, but if it turns into cervical cancer, the symptoms may include:

  • Pelvic pain.
  • Pain during sexual intercourse.
  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding.
  • Abnormal vaginal discharge.

Causes

Some common causes of cervical cancer are:

  • Smoking.
  • Family history.
  • Sexually transmitted disease, human papillomavirus (HPV).
  • Intake of birth control pills.
  • Having multiple sexual partners.

Risks

Some common risks of cervical cancer are:

  • Irregular periods.
  • Loss of sexual drive.
  • Vaginal dryness.
  • Hot flushes.
  • Osteoporosis.
  • Urine leakage while coughing or sneezing (stress incontinence).

Prevention

Following are some methods that can help to prevent cervical cancer:

  • HPV vaccine.
  • Using condoms during intercourse.
  • Quitting smoking.
  • Sexual hygiene. 

How is it diagnosed?

 If our doctor at Medanta suspects cervical cancer, a Pap test is conducted as a screening test for observing the abnormal growth of cells in the cervix. Test for HPV is also conducted. Further te...

How is it treated?

If found at an early stage, cervical cancer can be successfully treated. The treatment mode depends on the stage and type of the cancer. The patient’s age, overall health, quality of life, and desire to reproduce is also considered before the tr..

  • Surgery

    It is done to remove the cancer. The type of surgery depends on the location and the extent of spread of the cancer.

  • Radiation therapy

    It is often used in combination with surgery. It includes a high dose of X-rays to kill cancer cells.

  • Chemotherapy

    It includes usage of medicines to kill cancer cells. It may be used to treat advanced stages of cervical cancer.

  • Chemoradiation

    It is a combination of chemotherapy and radiation.

When do I contact the doctor?

If you experience pain during urination, unexpected bleeding, abnormal vaginal discharge, and irregular periods, contact a doctor immediately.

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