Early detection of cervical cancer is key to effective treatment, making regular Pap smear screenings essential.
The HPV vaccine, now available in three different versions, provides crucial protection against the virus that often leads to cervical cancer.
Early Stages
In its early stages, cervical cancer typically does not present any symptoms, making early detection challenging. Symptoms often emerge only after the cancer has progressed.
When early-stage cervical cancer symptoms do manifest, they may include:
- Irregular vaginal bleeding or heavier menstrual periods
- Vaginal bleeding after menopause
- Vaginal bleeding post-intercourse
- Unusual vaginal discharge that may be watery, foul-smelling, or blood-stained
- Pelvic pain or discomfort during intercourse
As cervical cancer advances, symptoms may encompass those of early-stage cancer, along with:
- Painful or difficult bowel movements
- Bleeding from the anus during bowel movements
- Painful urination
- Blood in the urine
- Persistent lower back pain
- Swelling in the legs
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
These symptoms can also be found in other conditions other than cervical cancer. Consulting a Doctor is essential for an accurate diagnosis. Delaying treatment for cervical cancer due to ignored symptoms can lead to less effective management.
Stages of cervical cancer
The staging of cervical cancer indicates the degree of spread.
There are 4 stages of cervical cancer progression and they are:
- Stage I: Cancer is confined to the cervix.
- Stage II: Cancer has spread beyond the cervix and uterus but not to the pelvic wall or vagina.
- Stage III: Cancer has spread to the lower vagina and possibly the pelvic wall and nearby lymph nodes.
- Stage IV: Cancer has spread to the bladder, rectum, or other distant parts of the body.
Treatment
Treatment of cervical cancer depends on:
- The stage of the cancer
- The size and shape of the tumor
- The woman's age and general health
- Her desire to have children in the future
Early cervical cancer can be cured by removing or destroying the precancerous or cancerous tissue. There are surgical ways to do this without removing the uterus or seriously damaging the cervix, so that a woman can still have children in the future.
The following treatment options are available depending on the stage of the cancer:
- Laser therapy
- Cryotherapy
- Hysterectomy
- Radiation therapy
- Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure(LEEP)
- Chemotherapy
HPV vaccine
The HPV vaccine is designed to protect against the specific strains of HPV responsible for nearly all cervical cancer cases. Gardasil 9 is effective against nine HPV types, which together account for about 90% of cervical cancers. For optimal efficacy, the second dose should be administered six to twelve months after the first.
Receiving the HPV vaccine does not eliminate the need for regular cervical cancer screening. Women vaccinated against HPV should have their first screening at age 25 and continue every five years thereafter.
Recognizing the symptoms of cervical cancer is key to early detection and effective treatment. In its early stages, cervical cancer may not present any noticeable signs, which is why regular screenings are crucial. When symptoms do appear, they can include irregular vaginal bleeding, unusual discharge, pain during intercourse, or pelvic discomfort. As the cancer progresses, additional symptoms such as painful urination, lower back pain, or leg swelling may occur.
While these signs can be caused by other conditions, it's important to consult a doctor promptly for proper diagnosis and care.
