Let’s understand what is a ‘symptom’ and its relation with cervical cancer.
A symptom is a change in your body that you can experience or notice. It acts as an indication that you might have cancer or an underlying disease.
In terms of cervical cancer, symptoms are changes in your body that could indicate the presence of cancer in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus.
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that usually shows no symptoms during its early and precancerous stages. This is because cancer cells often develop slowly over 15 to 20 years without causing any noticeable changes at first.
However, once the cancer spreads into nearby tissues, symptoms are noticeable, which are termed as common symptoms.
Furthermore, when the cancer is not treated and advances to a severe stage, the symptoms can become more noticeable and severe. Below, we have listed these types of symptoms in cervical cancer, which might help an individual seek medical help at the right time.
It is also important to remember that not everyone with cervical cancer will have symptoms in the early stages, as mentioned above. Therefore, regular screening for cervical cancer plays a crucial role in detecting cancer early which is not noticeable at first
Let’s explore the different types of symptoms.
Cervical cancer can show up in two phases: the Common Symptoms that creep in like shadows, and the Advanced Symptoms that hit like a full-blown storm. Spotting the symptoms early could mean the difference between winning the battle and protecting your health.
Common Signs of Cervical Cancer to Watch For
When it comes to cervical cancer, recognizing the early signs can make all the difference. The symptoms can be subtle and easy to overlook, but with awareness and vigilance, you can catch them early and take action. Let’s explore the common symptoms to watch for and stay ahead in protecting your health.
Below are the common symptoms of cervical cancer
•Watery or bloody vaginal discharge that may be heavy and can have an unpleasant smell.
•Abnormal vaginal bleeding between periods, after intercourse, or after menopause
•Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia).
•Pain in the area between the hip bones (pelvis)
•Menstrual bleeding that is heavier and lasts longer than usual.
But there’s more to watch for. When cervical cancer progresses, the symptoms can become more intense and harder to ignore. Knowing these advanced signs is crucial. Let’s dive into the symptoms that signal a more serious stage and be prepared to take action.
These signs and symptoms can also be caused by conditions other than cervical cancer. Still, if you have any of these symptoms, see a healthcare professional right away. Ignoring symptoms may allow the cancer to grow to a more advanced stage and lower your chance for successful treatment.
Understanding the symptoms of cervical cancer and taking action can be the key to catching it early, preventing delays, and improving outcomes. After becoming aware of the symptoms, staying vigilant becomes your best defense. Be mindful of any unusual vaginal discharge, bleeding, or pain, and perform regular self-checks.
If anything seems off, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Regular screenings, like Pap smears and HPV tests, combined with staying alert to any changes, are crucial steps in detecting cervical cancer early and protecting your health.