Unluckily there aren’t obvious early symptoms of cervical cancer, so women are often unaware that they have this type of cancer until it becomes too late. Symptoms finally start to appear when the cancer grows into a nearby tissue and becomes even more serious.
Routine Pap screenings are very important in finding and treating cervical cancer, and other reproductive cancers like ovarian cancer, as early as possible. The Pap test locates abnormal cells in the cervix which are then monitored and treated if necessary.
In between Pap screenings, it’s important to know and look out for these early signs of cervical cancer.
1. Irregular Bleeding
One of the most common symptoms of cervical cancer is irregular vaginal bleeding, which many women tend to shrug off. Irregular bleeding could occur in between menstrual periods or after sex.
It may be disguised as spotting, showing as a slight blood-streaked discharge. Menstrual bleeding may also become heavier and last longer than usual.
A major warning sign of cervical cancer or other problems is vaginal bleeding in post-menopausal women who no longer have periods.
2. Unusual Vaginal Discharge
There are some types of vaginal discharge that can be an early indication of cervical cancer. A continuous discharge with any of the following characteristics may be a warning sign:
- Watery
- Brown
- Pale
- Foul-smelling
- Tinged with blood
3. Pelvic Pain
Experiencing pain during sexual activity can be a warning sign of cervical cancer. This usually signals abnormal changes in the cervix. Cervical cancer can spread within the pelvis.
Signs of Advanced Stages of Cervical Cancer
The above mentioned signs of cervical cancer are often missed, as many women don’t know to look for them. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it may be a sign of advanced cervical cancer:
- Swelling in one or both of the legs
- Difficulty going to the bathroom due to obstruction
- Back or pelvic pain
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
What Puts You at Risk?
Knowing and watching out for the early warning signs of cervical cancer is step 1 to catching it before it can spread and become more dangerous. The following are factors that can put you at a higher risk for developing the disease:
- Having sex for the first time at a young age
- Having sex for the first time at a young age
- Having sex with a man whose partner had cervical cancer
- Smoking
- Weak immune system
- Mother’s use of diethylstilbestrol (DES) during pregnancy
The American Cancer Society warns women that the above signs and symptoms can be caused by other health conditions other than cervical cancer, like infections that leads to pain or bleeding. But if you are experiencing any of these problems, make sure to visit your doctor as soon as possible.
Even if it is an infection, it will still need to be treated. Our body sends us different signs when something is wrong, so we must try not to ignore them. Getting regular Pap tests will help to catch cancerous cells early, before they have a chance to spread.
The video below will provide you with more information on cervical cancer:
Source: healthyfoodteam
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