Cervical cancer is an uncommon type of cancer that develops in a woman’s cervix. The cervix is the entrance to the womb from the vagina.
Symptoms:
Cervical cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages.
- Unusual Bleeding – in most cases, vaginal bleeding is the first noticeable symptom of cervical cancer. It usually occurs after having sex.
- Bleeding at any other tume other than your expexted period is also considered unusual.
- Pain and discomfort during sex
- Unpleasant smelling vaginal discharge
- Advanced Cervical Cancer:
- Constipation
- Blood in your urine
- Loss of bladder control
- Bone pain
- Swelling of one of your legs
- Severe pain in your side or back caused by swelling in your kidneys
- Changes to your bowel and bladder habits
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Tiredness and lack of energy
Causes:
In almost all cases, cervical cancer is the result of a change in cell DNA caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
HPV – More than 99% of cases of cervical cancer occur in women who have been previously infected by HPV. This is spread during sexual intercourse.
Increased Risks:
- Smoking – women who smoke are twice as likely to develop cervical cancer
- Having a weakened immune system
- Taking the oral contraceptive pill for more than 5 years
- Having children (the more children you have the greater your risk)
Treatment:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiotherapy
Prevention:
- Safer Sex
- Cervical Screening
- Avoid Smoking
