How Do I Know If I Have Cervical Cancer? Key Symptoms To Look For.
Being aware of changes within your body and the nefarious signs and symptoms you should be looking out for is key when it comes to all cancers, particularly cervical cancer.
While early cervical cancers and pre-cancerous cell changes don’t usually have symptoms, there are still some signs you should be on the lookout for. Not everyone who gets diagnosed with cervical cancer will have symptoms, so in addition to being vigilant and knowing the signs, it’s also vital that you go and get regular cervical screenings.
These are the symptoms you should be looking out for if you have a history of cervical cancer or you are concerned about your vaginal health.
Firstly, What Is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cervix, and it often has no signs or symptoms in the early stages. Cervical cancer is caused by abnormal cell growth that’s usually linked to human papillomavirus (HPV).
Is HPV The Only Cause?
Almost all cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV, as it’s an incredibly common virus that is passed through sexual contact with a man or a woman. There are numerous types of harmless HPV. However, some strains can cause abnormal changes to the cells of the cervix, which can lead to cervical cancer.
Two strains of HPV (HPV 16 and HPV 18) are responsible for 70% of all cases of cervical cancer, and even more sinister, these strains don’t have any symptoms, so many women don’t even realise they have the infection.
Whilst it can seem incredibly daunting, it’s important to remember that HPV infections are relatively common, and most women who have HPV won’t ever develop cervical cancer.
What Are The Symptoms Of Cervical Cancer?
Whilst oftentimes cervical cancer comes with no symptoms at all, there are still some signs you should keep an eye out for. These include:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding (this could be bleeding between periods, during or after sex, after menopause or having heavier periods than usual).
- Changes to your vaginal discharge.
- Pain during sex.
- Pain in your lower back, in your pelvis (between your hip bones), or in your lower stomach.
If you have another condition, like fibroids or endometriosis, these symptoms may not cause you immediate concern, but it’s important to listen to your body and be aware of any changes.
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms or you’re concerned about cervical cancer, it’s important to book an appointment with your GP. It’s also crucial to monitor your symptoms and keep an eye on things to see if they change, get worse, or feel out of the ordinary for you.
What Happens During A Cervical Screening?
Whether you’ve been experiencing symptoms or you’re due for your regular check-up, a cervical screening can feel like an incredibly daunting thing – but they don’t have to be! Cervical screenings are routinely offered to anyone with a cervix between the ages of 25 and 64. Women between 25 and 49 will have a screening every 3 years, women 50 and 64 every 5 years, and anyone 65 and older will only need a test if their recent results are abnormal.
Regular cervical screenings are one of the most effective ways to ensure that you catch HPV or cervical cancer in its early stages.
During your appointment, you can expect your GP to look at the outside of your vagina, examine the inside of your vagina (with gloves), and take a swab with the help of a speculum (a tool used so the doctor can see your cervix).
Whilst it’s not a painful procedure, it can be a bit uncomfortable, so it’s important to chat to your GP before and during your appointment if you’re ever feeling particularly uncomfortable.
What Are The Treatment Options For Cervical Cancer?
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with cervical cancer and you’re not sure what happens next, it’s completely understandable to be anxious about the outcomes. The good news is, though, if you catch cervical cancer early enough, it’s usually treatable with surgery alone. Whilst some cases may not require a hysterectomy, the most common treatment for early-stage cervical cancer is a full hysterectomy (removal of the uterus).
If a hysterectomy is not an option for you, radiotherapy is often used in the early stages, either solo or alongside surgery.
More advanced cases may require a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. It’s crucial to take care of yourself if you have to have chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Adult integrated oncology is a great way to incorporate a holistic approach to cancer treatment alongside more traditional methods.
The treatment of cervical cancer can have significant and long-lasting effects, which can be challenging to deal with. This can include early menopause or infertility.
Early Identification Is Key
Cervical cancer, like a lot of cancers, has a much better 5-year prognosis if it is caught early. It’s crucial to ensure that you are familiar with your body and what is normal for you so that you can recognise any changes right away. Keeping an eye on signs and symptoms and ensuring you get regular cervical screenings are two of the biggest things you can do not only for your own health but also for your peace of mind.
Poppy Watt