Cervical Cancer

It is a type of cancer occurring in cervix – lower part of uterus that connects to vagina. It occurs due to various strains of HPV which can be prevented with vaccine. Risk factors include early sexual activity, other STDs and smoking

Symptoms

• Symptoms include vaginal bleed between period, vaginal bleed after intercourse, bloody vaginal discharge with foul smell, pain during intercourse.
• Cervical cancer screening is routinely suggested for women after they start their sexual activity.
• Pap tests are commonly used to screen cervical cancer. HPV test may also be additionally done.

Diagnosis

• Screening helps in early detection and has better chance of recovery when treated at early stages
• Vaccination against HPV decreases the risk of HPV infection and further cervical cancer and other HPV related cancer.
• Diagnosis is with biopsy of affected site (sample of cervical cells)

Treatment

• Surgery to remove the cancer tissue only or entire cervix or cervix and uterus is done
• Radiation therapy and chemotherapy also may be required.