Cervical cancer occurs in the cervix. It starts with the mutation of cells of cervix layering, the lower part of the uterus connecting vagina. The most common cause of cervical cancer is human papillomavirus (HPV).

In the beginning, our immune system prevents cervix from getting hurt from the virus but with time and infection if not controlled, leads to the abnormality of cells and cancer of the cervix.

 

Cervical Screening 

The cervical screening is also known as smear test. It helps prevent cervical cancer by checking for a high risk human papillomavirus (HPV) which if present, the cervical cells will be changed (abnormal cells finding). This test does not show cancer.

 

Undergoing screening -

Every female aged between 25 to 64 should undergo cervical screening every year or two.

 

Reducing risk of cervical cancer

This is important for females to know the preventive measures taken towards prevention of cervical cancer, following things to be done -

1. Cervical screening
2. Knowing the symptoms and taking advice if experiencing any
3. Get vaccinated with HPV vaccine if aged 11-18
4. Knowing your best advisor and further information

 

Symptoms of Cervical cancer -

Cervical cancer may not show any symptom or it may not be obvious. The most common symptoms includes:

1. Unusal veginal bleeding - after menopause, during or after sex or between periods
2. Changes in veginal discharge
3. Discomfort during sex
4. Unexplained lower back pain or in pelvis area

 

Advance symptoms includes -

1. Severe back or side pain
2. Unexplained weight loss
3. Loss of appetite
4. Constipation
5. Urinary incontinence
6. Bowel incontinence
7. Swelling in your legs
8. Smelly veginal discharge
9. Heavy vaginal bleeding

 

Treatment for cervical cancer -

Treatment of cancer depends on several factors including, stage of the cancer, any other health issues you have. The 3 modalities serving treatment for cancer patients are -

1. Surgery
2. Chemotherapy
3. Radiation therapy

These can be used in combination if needed for better results and cure.