Cervical cancer affects the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is a common form of cancer among women across the globe. The good news is that with regular screening, cervical cancer is preventable!
In this article, we’re going to explore some of the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for various cervical cancer stages.
Cervical Cancer Symptoms
It takes precancerous cervical cells many, many years to progress into cancer. Usually, there are no symptoms until an advanced lesion develops. This is why it’s so important to see your gynecologist and undergo regular screening to ensure you don’t have it.
Some of the signs of cervical cancer mimic symptoms of other normal gynecologic processes, such as:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding between periods or after sex
- Pain during sex
- Foul smelling vaginal discharge
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Painful urination
- If you notice any of these symptoms, you’ll want to make sure to schedule an appointment with your gynecologist right away.
Cervical Cancer Risk Factors
There are a number of factors that can increase your risk of cervical cancer. Some of these include:
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection: Almost all cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV, which is a common sexually transmitted infection.There are many strains of HPV. Some can cause abnormal changes to cervical cells, which can progress into cancer. Some are benign and may cause simple-appearing genital warts. The body has the unique ability to either clear out HPV on its own if you are healthy, or allow it to lay dormant in your system for years. There are tests to determine if you have HPV.
Smoking: Smoking can increase your risk of developing cervical cancer by reducing your body’s ability to clear out an HPV infection. Women who smoke are about twice as likely as those who don’t to get cervical cancer. Smoking also makes the immune system less effective in fighting HPV infections.
Weakened immune system: If your immune system is weakened due to an illness or medication, you may be at a higher risk of developing cervical cancer. The immune system is important for destroying cancer or pre-cancer cells and slowing their growth and spread.
Family history: Cervical cancer is not considered to be passed on from one family member to the next. However, if you have a family history of cervical cancer, you may be at a higher risk of developing the disease. Generally, this is because your genes have reduced fighting power against HPV and other viruses.
It’s important that you’re aware of your risk and you understand the various cervical cancer causes so you can get properly checked if needed.
How is Cervical Cancer Diagnosed and Treated?
Cervical cancer is typically diagnosed through a Pap test, which involves doing a pelvic exam collecting cells from the cervix to screen for changes. If the Pap test shows abnormal results, your doctor may recommend further testing, such as a colposcopy, which involves looking at the cervix with a microscope, with or without a biopsy.
Treatment options for cervical cancer and pre-cancerous cells of the cervix depend on the extent of the disease:
- Pre-cancer:
- Observation: If the pre-cancerous cells are caught early enough, it may be reasonable to observe cervical pre-cancerous cells with serial paps and colposcopy
- Surgery: Alternatively, doing a minimally invasive procedure such as a LEEP or a Cold Knife Cone may be feasible. These procedures involve cutting out a very small piece of the cervix to remove the cancerous cells.
- Cancer:
- Treatment for cervical cancer generally involves more extensive surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy. Patients are referred to a GYN oncologist for treatment.
How to Reduce my Risk of Cervical Cancer
While certain factors such as family history are unavoidable, there are still many things you can do to reduce the chances of needing treatment for cervical cancer. Here are some of the things you can do.
1. Get Regular Pap Tests
Regular pap tests can usually detect abnormal cells in the cervix so that they can be treated, if necessary, before they become cancerous. You should be going to your OBGYN appointments on an annual basis. Your provider will let you know how often you need a pap test based on your individual risk. Early detection is key to successful outcomes!
2. Get Vaccinated Against HPV
The HPV vaccine can help protect against some of the strains of HPV that can cause cancer. The vaccine is now recommended for cancer prevention in both males and females, ages 9-26. It is required for all students (not just girls) entering the 7th grade in Virginia as it has been proven safe and effective.
If for any reason you have an increased risk of cervical cancer, make sure you get the HPV vaccine. If you have not been previously vaccinated, it is now approved for administration up to the age of 45.
3. Practice Safe Sex
Using condoms during sex can help reduce your risk of HPV infection. If you’re worried about sex with a specific partner, your best bet is to avoid it altogether.
It can take weeks or even years after exposure to HPV before symptoms develop or the virus is detected. This is why it is usually impossible to determine when or from whom HPV may have been contracted.
4. Lifestyle Modifications
Like with most cancers, anything that will help boost your overall health status and immune system will lower your risk of cervical cancer. Quitting or avoiding smoking and managing your weight with diet and exercise will lower your risk of cervical cancer.
Final Thoughts
Cervical cancer is a very serious disease, but it’s preventable with the right actions. If you’re experiencing any symptoms, now is the time to see your provider and learn more about your options.
