Cancer is a disease in which cells in the body grow out of control. When cancer starts in the cervix, it is called cervical cancer. Cervical cancer usually develops slowly over time. Although other things also can increase your risk of cervical cancer, almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV. The cervix connects the birth canal to the upper part of the uterus, where a baby grows when a woman is pregnant.
What are the Symptoms Related to Cervical Cancer?
When symptoms of early-stage cervical cancer do occur, they may include
- vaginal bleeding after sex
- vaginal bleeding after menopause
- vaginal bleeding between periods or periods that are heavier or longer than normal
- vaginal discharge that is watery and has a strong odor or that contains blood
- pelvic pain or pain during sex
How Is Cervical Cancer Diagnosed and Treated?
Cervical cancer is treated in several ways. It depends on the kind of cervical cancer and how far it has spread. Treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
In most cases, a gynecologic oncologist (a doctor who has been trained to treat cancers of a woman’s reproductive system) will work with you to create a treatment plan.
Information about the size of cancer or how far it has spread is often used to determine the stage or the extent of the disease. Doctors use this information to plan the treatment and monitor progress.
Talk to your cancer doctor about the treatment options available for your type and stage of cancer. Your doctor can explain the risks and benefits of each treatment and their side effects.
What Should I Know About Screening?
The HPV test and the Pap test can help prevent cervical cancer or find it early.
- The HPV test looks for the virus (human papillomavirus) that can cause cell changes on the cervix.
- The Pap test (or Pap smear) looks for precancers, cell changes on the cervix that might become cervical cancer if they are not treated.
Both tests are provided by MHEDS. Make an appointment today.
If You Are 21 to 29 Years Old
You should start getting Pap tests at age 21. If your Pap test result is normal, your doctor may tell you that you can wait three years until your next Pap test.
If You Are 30 to 65 Years Old
Talk to your doctor about which testing option is right for you—
- An HPV test only. This is called primary HPV testing. If your result is normal, your doctor may tell you that you can wait five years until your next screening test.
- An HPV test along with the Pap test. This is called co-testing. If both of your results are normal, your doctor may tell you that you can wait five years until your next screening test.
- A Pap test only. If your result is normal, your doctor may tell you that you can wait three years until your next Pap test.
If You Are Older Than 65
Your doctor may tell you that you don’t need to be screened anymore if—
- You have had normal screening test results for several years, and
- You have not had a cervical precancer in the past, or
- You have had your cervix removed as part of a total hysterectomy for non-cancerous conditions like fibroids.
What Can I Do to Reduce My Risk of Cervical Cancer?
The HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that most often cause cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers.
If vaccination is started before age 15, a two-dose schedule is recommended, with the doses given 6 to 12 months apart. For people who start the series after their 15th birthday, the vaccine is given in a series of three shots.
HPV vaccination prevents new HPV infections but does not treat existing infections or diseases. This is why the HPV vaccine works best when given before any exposure to HPV. You should get screened for cervical cancer regularly, even if you received an HPV vaccine.
Want to get a headstart on your health? We deliver a Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support program accredited by the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists to meet the needs of people affected by the disease. Call MHEDS at 814-453-6229 (Peach Street) or 814-616-7730 (John F. Kennedy Center).
Our health information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist the public in learning more about their health. MHEDS’ providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.
Sources
CDC.gov (2023 January ) Retrieved December 29, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/cervical/basic_info/index.htm
National Cancer Institute. (n.d.). What is cervical cancer? National Cancer Institute. Retrieved January 2, 2023, from https://www.cancer.gov/types/cervical
