Specialty: Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Introduction:
Cervical cancer begins on the surface of cervix. It happens when the cells on cervix start to change to precancerous cells. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)infection causes almost all cases of cervical cancer. This type of cancer can affect women of all ages. However, it is most common in women above 30 years of age. Cervical cancer is a serious health concern worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is one of the leading causes of cancer death in women. Early detection and treatment can save lives. Therefore, learning about cervical cancer is important for every woman.
Symptoms:
Cervical cancer often doesn’t cause symptoms until it begins to spread. Knowing the early signs of cervical cancer can help you seek care sooner.
Sign & symptoms of Stage-I Cervical Cancer can include:
→Watery or bloody vaginal discharge that may be heavy and can have a foul odor.
→Vaginal bleeding after sex, between menstrual periods or after menopause.
→Pain during sex (Dyspareunia).
If cancer has spread to nearby tissues or organs, symptoms may include:
→Difficult or painful urination, sometimes with blood in urine.
→Diarrhoea, pain or bleeding from rectum when pooping.
→Fatigue, loss of weight and appetite.
→A general feeling of illness.
→Dull backache or selling in your legs.
→Pelvic/abdominal pain.
Causes and Risk Factors
The main cause of cervical cancer is infection with certain types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV and cervical cancer are closely linked. However, not all women with HPV will develop cancer. Other risk factors can also play a role. These include:
• Having many sexual partners.
• Starting sexual activity at a young age.
• Smoking tobacco.
• Weak immune system.
• Long-term use of birth control pills.
• Family history of cervical cancer.
Because HPV is so common, regular screening is important. This can help find changes in the cervix before cancer develops.
Diagnosis
Dr. Geeta Jain, HOD (Obstetrics & Gynecology) advises several investigations to diagnose cervical cancer. Early detection is possible with regular cervical cancer screening. Common tests include:
• Pap test (Pap smear): Looks for changes in cervical cells.
• HPV test: Checks for the virus that can cause cervical cancer.
• Colposcopy: Examines the cervix with a special microscope.
• Biopsy: Removes a small sample of tissue for testing.
If test results show abnormal cells, may suggest more tests. Early diagnosis can lead to better treatment outcomes.
Treatment Options:
Treatment for cervical cancer depends on the stage of the disease. Common treatment options include:
• Surgery: Removes cancer from the cervix.
• Radiation therapy: Uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to destroy cancer cells.
• Targeted therapy: Focuses on specific parts of cancer cells.
Sometimes, more than one treatment used to cure the disease. Early-stage cervical cancer is often easier to treat. Therefore, regular screening is key.
Prevention:
There are several ways to lower risk of cervical cancer. Following these cervical cancer prevention tips can help protect your health:
• Get the HPV vaccine as recommended.
• Have regular Pap Tests and HPV tests.
• Practice safe sex by using condoms.
• Do not smoke.
• Limit the number of sexual partners.
Because prevention is better than cure! The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends HPV vaccination for girls starting at age 11 or 12.
When to Seek Consultation by the Doctor:
If you notice any symptoms of cervical cancer, please don’t wait—schedule a visit with Dr. Geeta Jain, HOD (Obstetrics & Gynecology) right away. Even if you feel fine, regular cervical cancer screening is important. Early signs can be easy to miss, so staying up to date with regular screening helps detect the Cervical Cancer early. If you have concerns about Cervical Cancer, consult with her at Aastha Hospital for early diagnosis, timely intervention & expertise cure.
(Dr. Geeta Jain)
MBBS, MD (OBS & GYN)
HOD (OBS, GYN & IVF)