Cervical cancer
A form of cervical cancer develops in the cervix’s cells, the lower portion of the uterus that attaches to the vagina.
Most cervical cancers are from different strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection.
Symptoms of cervical cancer
Early-stage cervical cancer typically has neither any indicators nor symptoms
Symptoms and signs include:
- Vaginal bleeding following menses, in between periods, or following menopause
- Vaginal dismissal that is watery, red, and odorous
- Pelvis pain or pain during a sexual activity
Causes of cervical cancer
While the exact causation of cervical cancer is unknown, HPV is a factor. The people in the majority who carry the virus HPV never develop cancer; this indicates that other elements, such as your environment or lifestyle choices, also affect whether you’ll get cervical cancer.
Types
Your type of cervical cancer influences your treatment and prognosis.
The most dominant forms are:
- Carcinoma of the squamous cell.
- Adenocarcinoma
Both types of cells can play a vital part in cervical cancer. Cancer very rarely develops in the cervix’s other cells.
Preventing cervical cancer
Cervical cancer is not always preventable. However, you may take steps to lessen your risk of cervical cancer.
The most effective prevention methods of cervical cancer include HPV vaccination and screening.
Regular cervical screenings are open to all women and people with cervixes between the ages of 25 and 64. Before they may develop into cancer, it aids in identifying and treating any changes in the cervix’s cells.
Every child between 12 and 13 should have an HPV shot. It aids in preventing genital warts and any malignancies brought on by HPV.
Additionally, you can lessen your risk of developing cervical cancer by:
- Wearing condoms, which reduces your risk of getting HPV
- Quit smoking; the chemicals in cigarettes might weaken your immune system and lead to cervical cancer
- Maintaining a healthy diet will aid in boosting your immune system
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 16 JULY 2022