Cervical cancer is a type of cancer which is caused by HPV (human papillomavirus) that is very contagious. The HPV is a sexually transmitted virus which has more than 100 variations. Some of the variations can cause cervical cancer, which is one of the deadliest types of gynecological cancer. The HPV can disappear on its own if the immune system is strong enough to fight it, however it can sometimes cause abnormal cell growth which can turn into cervical malignancy.
7 SIGNS OF CERVICAL CANCER
Although cervical cancer does not produce obvious symptoms like breast
cancer, it can still be detected early if you know what signs to look
for.
Visit a gynecologist immediately in case you have any of the symptoms:
UNUSUAL DISCHARGE
Unusual discharge is a common symptom of this type of cancer because
once the cancer starts growing inside the cervix, the cells of the
uterine lining start secreting watery discharge.
WARTS
As gynecologist Rosa Maria Leme says: “The appearance of small warts
(external or internal) serves as a red flag for some diseases such as
HPV, which greatly increases the chances of cervical cancer in women.”
PAIN OR BLEEDING
Pelvic discomfort and bleeding are also typical signs of cervical cancer
because the walls of the cervix dry out and even crack due to the
abnormal cell growth. Rectal or bladder bleeding can also occur though
in the more advanced stages. Any bleeding outside your menstrual period
requires immediate medical attention.
ANEMIA
Anemia often accompanies cervical cancer because it’s caused by
excessive bleeding, another sign of this cancer. If your eating habits
are the same, but you constantly feel tired, or your heartbeat increases
even at the slightest effort, you should get examined for anemia and
the reason behind it.
URINARY PROBLEMS
Difficulty urinating is another sign of cervical cancer that occurs as a
result of swelling of the cervix, which presses the bladder and kidneys
impeding the passage of urine. This results in inability to empty your
bladder completely, pain while urinating and/or a urinary tract
infection.
CONTINUOUS PAIN IN THE LEGS, HIPS OR BACK
A swollen cervix does not only affect your kidneys and bladder, but also
your internal organs. It may put pressure on the blood vessels and
inhibit blood flow to the pelvis and legs, thus producing pain and
swelling in the legs and ankles.
WEIGHT LOSS
Loss of appetite and weight accompanies most types of cancer. In the
case of cervical cancer, the swollen cervix puts pressure on the
stomach, leading to appetite and weight loss.
Note: It’s very important to have in mind that these symptoms can also
be produced by other conditions. However, reporting them to your
gynecologist is vital for early detection.
There are numerous risk factors that can lead to contracting an HPV infection, found in both men and women.
THE BEST-KNOWN RISK FACTORS FOR CERVICAL CANCER ARE:
- Smoking or inhaling second-hand smoke
- Having multiple sexual partners
- Having unprotected sex
- Having low immunity
As the article mentioned earlier, an HPV infection is the root cause of cervical cancer, so being able to read the warning signs and symptoms of HPV is critical for this cancer. Having regular Pap smear tests once or twice a year also increases your chances of early detection.