Because of efficient screening techniques and the availability of vaccines, cervical cancer—which is mainly caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV—is one of the cancers that can be prevented the most. The symptoms of cervical cancer, its screening guidelines, how it can be diagnosed, what are the available treatments, and common misconceptions will all be discussed in this article.
Red Flags and Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
In its early stages, cervical cancer may not cause symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, the following symptoms may appear:
1. Abnormal vaginal bleeding: This includes bleeding between periods, after intercourse, or after menopause.
2. Pelvic pain: unusual pain in the pelvic region, especially during sex or urination, can be a symptom.
3. Unusual Vaginal Discharge: A change in vaginal discharge, especially if it’s foul-smelling or contains blood, could indicate cervical cancer.
4. Painful Intercourse: Cervical cancer or precancerous cells may be present if there is pain during intercourse.
5. Swelling in the Legs: In advanced stages, swelling of the legs may occur due to lymph node involvement.
Screening for Cervical Cancer: Who Should Get Tested and When?
Regular checkups can greatly reduce the risk of cervical cancer. The following guidelines will help you understand who should get tested and when:
1. Pap Smear: From age 21, every woman should get Pap smears every three years until they are 65. A Pap smear searches for abnormal cells in the cervix that may develop into cancer.
2. HPV Testing: HPV testing is recommended for women over 30, as it detects the presence of high-risk HPV strains associated with cervical cancer.
3. Co-testing: Women aged 30-65 should undergo co-testing (Pap smear and HPV test) every five years.
Diagnostic and Screening Tests for Cervical Cancer
1. Pap Smear: The Pap test is an easy procedure that involves removing cells from the cervix to identify any abnormal or precancerous cells.
2. HPV Test: This test checks for high-risk HPV strains that are linked to cervical cancer.
3. Colposcopy: If a Pap smear reveals abnormal cells, a colposcopy is done to look more closely at the cervix and, if needed, get biopsies.
4. Biopsy: If unusual cells are found, a biopsy of the cervix may be taken to determine if cancer is present.
Treatment Options for Cervical Cancer
Treatment is determined by the stage and spread of the disease. Here are some common treatment options:
1. Surgery: to remove the tumour, cervix, or even the uterus for treating early-stage cervical cancer.
2. Radiation Therapy: Following surgery, radiation can be used to kill any cancer cells that may still be present.
3. Chemotherapy: to kill cancer cells in advanced or metastatic cervical cancer.
4. Immunotherapy: In certain cases, immunotherapy drugs like pembrolizumab may be used to boost the immune system’s ability to fight cancer.
Cancer Myths: Busting Common Misconceptions About Cervical Cancer
1. Myth: Only women who are sexually active get cervical cancer.
Fact: While HPV is sexually transmitted, cervical cancer can affect women who have had few or no sexual partners.
2. Myth: Cervical cancer only affects older women.
Fact: Cervical cancer can affect women of any age, but it is most common in women between 35 and 44 years old.
3. Myth: A Pap test isn’t necessary if I’ve had the HPV vaccine.
Fact: While the HPV vaccine protects against certain strains of the virus, regular Pap smears are still important for detecting early signs of cancer.
How HealthPil Can Help:
At HealthPil, we provide expert health advice and access to specialists in cervical cancer treatment. Whether you need to schedule a consultation, receive advice about screenings, or seek a second opinion, we’re here to support you throughout your health journey.
FAQs: Your Cervical Cancer Questions Answered
What are the first symptoms of cervical cancer?
Unusual discharge, pelvic pain, and irregular vaginal bleeding are some of the early symptoms.
How is cervical cancer diagnosed?
Cervical cancer is diagnosed through a Pap smear, HPV test, colposcopy, and biopsy.
Who is at risk for cervical cancer?
Those women are at greater risk who have a history of having multiple sexual partners, are HPV-positive, or have weak immune systems.
Which treatments are available for cervical cancer?
Treatment includes surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, depending on the stage of cancer.
Can cervical cancer be prevented?
Cervical cancer risk can be decreased by routine checkups, HPV vaccination, and safe sex practices.
Disclaimer:
The information provided here is solely meant for educational purposes and should not be replaced with professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor for medical advice tailored to your specific condition.
