How to Recognize the Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer, the presence of malignant tissue in and around the cervix, is one of the more common forms of cancer affecting women today. Like any other cancer, cervical cancer can be fatal if not caught and treated in its earlier stages. This is why it is vitally important not only to receive regular checkups from your doctor, but also to recognize the symptoms of cervical cancer early on.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Note that the earliest stages of cervical cancer rarely produce any symptoms. It is typically not until the cancer has become invasive and begins spreading into the tissue surrounding the cervix that cervical cancer becomes symptomatic.
2. Monitor any instances of vaginal bleeding that do not coincide with your menstrual cycle. This type of bleeding is often one of the first symptoms of cervical cancer.
3. Recognize moderate discomfort during sexual intercourse as potential symptoms of cervical cancer. Discomfort while douching or during a pelvic exam are also indicative of the presence of cervical cancer.
4. Follow up by contacting your doctor immediately if you believe you have any of the symptoms of cervical cancer. Schedule an exam right away.
5. Make positive life changes. You may want to quit smoking, whether you are diagnosed with cancer or given a clean bill of health. Smoking exacerbates the side effects of cancer treatments. It is also a contributing factor to cervical cancer.
6. Make and keep your yearly Pap test and gynecological exam. According to the American Cancer Society, 60 to 80 percent of women newly diagnosed with cervical cancer have not received a Pap test within the past 5 years.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep in mind that you have the right to learn about all of the potential treatment options available to you should you develop cervical cancer.
• Ask your doctor if you are in a high-risk group for developing cervical cancer. If you smoke, have been diagnosed with human papillomavirus (HPV), have HIV or have a family history of the disease, you will want to be especially diligent about looking out for cancer symptoms.
• Take your mental well-being seriously. If you are diagnosed with cervical cancer, be on the lookout for the symptoms of depression, such as whole-body aches or extreme lethargy. Depression is common in cancer patients and should be treated through the help of a support group, therapist or other source of strength and comfort.