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Cervical cancer: what every woman needs to know?
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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Despite the fact that examination and diagnostics are accessible methods for detecting oncological diseases, among malignant tumors, cervical cancer is second only to breast cancer.
Cervical cancer is most often caused by a certain virus that provokes the growth of abnormal cells. The earlier the tumor is diagnosed, the greater the chances of a favorable outcome. You must always be on guard, which means having an idea of this disease and knowing its symptoms.
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
- pain and bleeding during sex
- vaginal discharge
- bleeding between periods
- bleeding after menopause
The main theory behind the occurrence of cervical cancer is human papillomavirus infection, which can be asymptomatic and sometimes cause the formation of warts – genital warts.
Risk group
Cervical cancer most often occurs in older women, those who have promiscuous sex or who began sexual relations too early. Women who have had many abortions and those who suffer from sexually transmitted and inflammatory diseases are also at risk.
Additionally, statistics show that cervical cancer most often affects women of African American and Hispanic descent.
Early diagnosis
Early diagnostics of the tumor includes a Pap smear, which helps to detect the presence of pathological cells in the cervix. Every woman starting at age 21 should undergo this painless procedure every three years. As additional examination methods, the doctor may prescribe a biopsy or colposcopy.
[ Cervical Cancer Stages
There are several stages of tumor development, depending on the location and size.
- Stage 0 – cancer cells are observed on the surface of the cervix;
- Stage 1 – cancer has spread beyond the cervix;
- Stage 2 – cancer extends to the upper part of the vagina;
- Stage 3 – cancer reaches the lower part of the vagina;
- Stage 4 – cancer grows into the rectum or bladder.
Cervical cancer treatment
Surgery is often performed, and radiation therapy may be given as an adjunct to treatment.