How to Live With Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer, defined as any of a number of different cancers that affect the cervix and the surrounding tissue, is one of the more common cancers affecting women today. It is important to note, however, that it is also one of the cancers with the highest survival rate. When treated early, it is possible to live a long, full life after your cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Understand that the survival rate of those with cervical cancer is roughly between 80 and 95 percent when caught in its initial stages (I, IA and IB), making it more than possible to live a long, healthy life after cancer.
2. Talk with your doctor about each of the available treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. More often than not, doctors will recommend you utilize two or more methods to help improve the effectiveness of the treatment.
3. Express your fears, thoughts and concerns with the people you love. Whether you discuss your situation with your family or a support group of others sharing your same illness, you'll find that talking about it makes it easier to deal with and, ultimately, easier to recover from. Find a support group through the American Cancer Society (see Resources below).
4. Quit smoking. Smoking has been shown to increase your chances of developing cervical cancer by 50 to 80 percent. If you already have cancer and are preparing for treatments, understand that tobacco usage will impair your ability to heal. This is especially dangerous if you are undergoing invasive surgery.
5. Ask your doctor about available clinical trials, many of which are listed on the National Cancer Institute's Web site (see Resources below). This is a particularly good option for those with more advanced stages of cervical cancer.
6. Follow up your cancer treatments by extending a helping hand to others. As a cancer survivor, you will be a role model to those you help. Simply picking up groceries for a cancer patient or driving her to and from treatments can mean so much.

Tips & Warnings

• Participate in any and all discussions about your treatment, which is your right. You are allowed to have a say in choosing your treatment options.
• Ask your doctor if she recommends any books that could help you gain perspective on your disease. As a cancer specialist, your doctor is likely to have many favorite books which could benefit you.
• If you're struggling with the mental and psychological aspects of living with cervical cancer, consider speaking with your doctor about treatments for anxiety and depression. It's only natural to be afraid, but that shouldn't hamper your ability to maintain a positive outlook.