Cervical cancer, like all cancers, arises from the development of abnormal cells, which in this case, occur in the cervix. Every woman is at risk for cervical cancer, and these out-of-control cells can be detected or managed with a Pap smear test.
The Mayo Clinic states that "Most cervical cancer is caused by various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection. Typically, a woman's immune system prevents the virus from causing harm. However, in a small subset of women, the virus persists for years, contributing to the transformation of some cervical surface cells into cancer cells."
Early detection of cervical cancer can lead to successful treatment, much like other cancers. Being aware of cervical cancer signs is crucial for timely checks and increasing the likelihood of effective treatment.
HERE ARE 8 SIGNS OF CERVICAL CANCER NOT TO IGNORE
1. LEG PAIN WITH SWELLING
While not all leg pains are indicative of cervical cancer, persistent leg pain without a clear cause, such as a recent workout or injury, could signal cervical cancer, especially if accompanied by swelling.
Unity Point Health explains, "As the cancer advances, it may press against pelvic wall nerves, causing leg pain and sometimes swelling." Thus, unexplained leg pain warrants medical evaluation.
2. ABNORMAL VAGINAL DISCHARGE
Any abnormal vaginal discharge should be examined by a gynecologist promptly. Typically, vaginal discharge is colorless and mostly odorless, with a possible faint bodily scent. However, if the discharge has an unusual color or a strong odor, it is crucial to seek medical attention.
But what causes this?
Unity Point Health states, "A lack of oxygen to cervical cancer can cause cell death, leading to tumor infection. This infection results in a foul-smelling vaginal discharge, which is another indicator of cervical cancer. The discharge may be continuous, pale, watery, brown, or blood-tinged." While it may not indicate cervical cancer, any unusual discharge is not normal.
3. VAGINAL BLEEDING
Individuals who do not monitor their menstrual cycle might mistake vaginal bleeding for regular spotting or menstruation. Nonetheless, bleeding outside the regular menstrual cycle is not typical. Women who experience bleeding after intercourse or during postmenopause should consider screening for cervical cancer or abnormal cervical cells. Vaginal bleeding is a significant warning sign.
4. UNCOMFORTABLE URINATION
Women susceptible to urinary tract infections might confuse painful urination with a UTI. Urination should be pain-free, without any stinging or burning sensations.
According to Unity Point Health, "Cervical cancer can lead to kidney blockage. This obstruction makes urination painful and sometimes challenging, possibly causing frequent, unexplained urges to urinate."
Thus, if urination becomes painful or uncomfortable, consulting a physician is essential. Although it might not be as severe as cancer, it is a symptom of cervical cancer that should not be overlooked.
5. SEX IS LESS ENJOYABLE
This doesn’t have to do with your libido, but rather has to do with how comfortable, enjoyable or painful sex is. If sex suddenly becomes painful, it could be an indication that you have cervical cancer. If painful intercourse happens abruptly and with no other explanation for it, you may just be experiencing an overgrowth of cells in your cervix.6. PELVIC PAIN
During menstrual cycles, it's common for women to experience cramps and pelvic pain. While pelvic pain alone is not a direct indicator of cervical cancer, intense pain or pain that persists beyond the menstrual cycle may be a warning sign.
The MD Anderson Cancer Center states that ongoing abdominal pain or discomfort, including symptoms like gas, indigestion, pressure, bloating, and cramps, may indicate ovarian cancer. Similarly, continuous pelvic pain or pressure could point to endometrial cancer.
It's advisable to seek medical attention for any unusual pelvic pain, particularly if accompanied by other symptoms.
7. WEIGHT LOSS AND FATIGUE
Unintentional weight loss should always be investigated, especially if there's no apparent reason such as changes in diet. When paired with unrelenting fatigue, this could signal cervical cancer. Any alterations in weight or energy levels warrant a medical consultation, especially when concurrent with other symptoms suggestive of cervical cancer.
8. IRREGULAR MENSTRUAL CYCLES
While most women experience regular menstrual cycles, typically every 25-28 days, irregular cycles can occur due to various factors such as health conditions, medications, or dietary changes. However, irregular cycles can also be a symptom of cervical cancer. A sudden change in regularity, such as missing a period or experiencing an unusually long cycle, should be considered a red flag.
Final thoughts
The prospect of cervical cancer may be frightening, but it's crucial to remember that early detection greatly increases the likelihood of successful treatment. Paying attention to your body's natural rhythms and noting any unusual changes can alert you to the need for a doctor's appointment to check for any abnormalities in your cervix.
Source: www.powerofpositivity.com
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