Women's Health Back
Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is mostly caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV. An HPV vaccine may reduce the risk of cervical cancer. Symptoms of cervical cancer can include painful sex, vaginal bleeding, and discharge.
SYMPTOMS
Vaginal bleeding that isn't normal, such as between menstrual periods, after sex, or after menopause. Pain during sex
.Vaginal discharge that isn't normal.
A significant unexplained change in your menstrual cycle.
The symptoms of advanced cervical cancer may include:
Anemia because of abnormal vaginal bleeding.
Ongoing pelvic, leg, or back pain.
Urinary problems because of blockage of a kidney or ureter.
Leakage of urine or stool into the vagina. This can happen when an abnormal opening (fistula) has developed between the vagina and the bladder or rectum. Weight loss.
DIAGNOSIS:
Pap test is a routine screening test used to find abnormal cell changes of the cervix and to screen for cervical cancer. Regular Pap test screening is the most important tool in finding and treating cervical cell changes before they progress to cervical cancer.
colposcopy and cervical biopsy. This test can find out whether and where cancer cells are on the surface of the cervix.
An endocervical biopsy (or curettage). This test is to find out whether cancer cells are in the cervical canal.
A cone biopsy or loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP). These tests are sometimes recommended to remove cervical tissue for examination under a microscope.