Cervical Cancer: Understanding the Signs and Symptoms

As a leading cause of worldwide death, cancer comprises various types. In fourth place is cervical cancer, known to cause around 350.000 deaths of women worldwide in 2022. This number alone shows that women must be aware to detect this cancer before it develops into severe cases.

In this blog post, we’ll learn about cervical cancer, its types, stages, causes, signs and symptoms, and preventive steps. Read on!

What is Cervical Cancer?

Living up to its name, cervical cancer is a cancer that starts in a woman’s cervix, which is located in the lower, narrow part of the uterus (womb) and connected to the vagina.

This condition happens when the cells in the cervical tissue shift to abnormal, precancerous cells—also known as dysplasia. Although these cells can turn into cancerous cells, in some cases, they don’t. However, it is wise to destroy and remove them before they grow into dangerous cancer cells.

Types of Cervical Cancer

There are mainly two cervical cancer types, which are adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma—called after the cell type where the cancer started. Here are the differences:

Adenocarcinoma

This cervical cancer type starts in the glandular cells of the endocervix. One of the rare types of its cell is clear cell carcinoma or mesonephroma.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma starts from cells located in the ectocervix. Most cervical cancers are this cancer type.

Cervical cancer can sometimes be a mix of two types, known as mixed carcinoma or adenosquamous carcinoma. Also, it’s very rare for cancer to start in other types of cells in the cervix.

What are the Stages of Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer consists of four stages, which are:

1. 1. Stage I: Small cancer found in the cervix.

1. 1. Stage II: The cancer has spread outside the cervix and uterus.

1. 1. Stage III: The cancer has extended to the lower area of the vagina and possibly to the pelvic wall, the ureters, and the lymph nodes close by.

1. 1. Stage IV: The cancer has spread to other body parts like the rectum, bladder, and even bones or lungs.

What Causes Cervical Cancer?

Primarily, this condition is caused by an infection with several types of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a virus commonly transmitted through sexual contact (both vaginal or anal).

While HPV is widespread and often cleared by the immune system without causing any issues, in some cases, it can survive for years and contribute to the process that turns some abnormal cells into cancer cells.

Other risk factors include:

• • Having multiple sexual partners

• • Engaging in early sexual activity

• • Smoking

• • Having other sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhea, chlamydia, or HIV/AIDS

However, not all HPV types cause cervical cancer; some may lead to genital warts, while others may not cause any symptoms at all. 

What are the Most Frequent Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Cancer?

Each cervical cancer stage shows different signs and symptoms.

For the initial stage, you may notice some of these signs or symptoms:

• • Vaginal bleeding between menstrual periods

• • Pain and bleeding after intercourse

• • Vaginal bleeding after menopause

• • Longer and heavier menstrual periods

• • Changing vaginal discharge, such as foul odour, heavy consistency, or even bloody

When the cancer cells have already spread to other parts of the body, these symptoms may appear:

• • Pelvic pain

• • Painful or difficult urination

• • Illness in general

• • Leg swelling

• • Backache dull

• • Fatigue

To ensure a correct diagnosis, consult a healthcare professional.

Prevention of Cervical Cancer

The Department of Health and Aged Care of the Australian Government conducts a national cervical screening program every five years as a preventive measure to reduce death or illness from cervical cancer.

Besides joining the program, you can also do other prevention efforts, such as: 

Ask Your Doctor about the HPV Vaccine

The HPV vaccine has been a part of the WHO-recommended vaccination routine for worldwide countries. The HPV vaccination helps prevent many types of HPV infection, which also leads to lower cervical cancer risk. Consult your doctor if it’s recommended for you to take this preventive measure.

Practice Safe Sex

Practising safe sex includes using a condom during sex and not changing partners. This way, you’ll reduce the risk of cervical cancer due to sexually transmitted infections.

Have Routine Pap Tests

Taking a routine Pap test (Pap smear) is beneficial for early detection and treatment of precancerous conditions. You can take this test as early as 21 years old.

Don’t Smoke

Quit smoking at all costs not only to lower the risk of developing cervical cancer but also to maintain your overall body health condition. If you find it hard to quit, consult your doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions