Learn how to spot cervical cancer symptoms for an early diagnosis and a better prognosis.
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that starts in your cervix (the lower part of a woman’s uterus that connects to the vagina). The initial signs and symptoms are often vague but may include pelvic pain or abnormal bleeding.
At first, cervical cancer might not cause any signs or symptoms at all. That’s why it’s hard to detect this cancer in its early stages without regular screenings. But as the cancer grows, you might experience more noticeable problems.
Still, early-stage cervical cancer can sometimes cause symptoms. Some symptoms to watch out for include:
When cervical cancer spreads beyond the cervix and becomes advanced, symptoms may include:
Difficult or painful urination or bowel movements
Bleeding from the rectum during a bowel movement
Blood in the urine
A dull backache
Swelling of your legs
Pain in your belly
Feeling tired
Diarrhea
Weight loss or loss of appetite
These issues could also be indicators of other health conditions. The only way to know if your symptoms are signs of cervical cancer is to see your doctor for testing.
There are two main types of cervical cancer.
Squamous Cell Carcinomas These cancers develop from cells in the ectocervix, which is the outer part of the cervix that doctors can see during a gynecological exam. Roughly 80 percent to 90 percent of cervical cancers are squamous cell carcinomas.
Adenocarcinomas These cancers develop in the glandular cells of the endocervix, which is the opening of the cervix that leads to the uterus. Adenocarcinomas account for 10 percent to 20 percent of cervical cancers.
You can also have features of both types of cervical cancer. This is called mixed carcinoma or adenosquamous carcinoma. Additionally, other types of cancer can develop in the cervix, but these are rare.
Cervical cancer can lead to complications, which are secondary health problems.
Some possible complications include:
Pain: If the cancer spreads, you might notice pain or discomfort.
Kidney damage: Cervical cancer can cause kidney failure in its advanced stages.
Change in bathroom habits: You may have difficulty peeing. Or, you could experience bowel changes, such as constipation.
Bleeding: You may bleed from your vagina, bladder, or rectum if cervical cancer spreads to other parts of your body.
Blood clots: Cervical cancer might slow your blood flow and increase your risk of clots.
Fertility issues: You may have trouble getting pregnant or experience miscarriage after treatment for cervical cancer. Some women can’t get pregnant at all, but your fertility status will depend on the treatment you receive.
Treatment side effects: Cancer therapies can cause problems like nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and sexual dysfunction.
You should see your doctor if you develop unusual symptoms, particularly:
Bleeding between your periods
Bleeding after menopause
Watery vaginal discharge
Pain during sex or pelvic pain during sex
Your doctor may recommend a Pap smear or other tests to see if you have cervical cancer or something else. Catching the cancer early can lead to a better prognosis, so you shouldn’t hesitate to see your health provider.
Cervical cancer can cause symptoms like abnormal bleeding, discharge, and pain during sex. But these vague symptoms can sometimes be overlooked, highlighting the importance of regular screenings. Ask your doctor about any unusual signs and symptoms, because early diagnosis and treatment of cervical cancer are linked to a better prognosis.