Cervical Cancer
9 Cervical Cancer Symptoms You Shouldn't Dismiss As 'normal'
Sadly, we all likely know someone who has been impacted by cancer – and the type most likely to be seen in young women is cervical (it mainly impacts sexually active women between the ages of 30 and 45).
According to data from Cancer Research, 1 in 142 females in the UK will receive a cervical cancer diagnosis in their lifetime and there are around 3,200 new cases diagnosed each year (almost nine a day). Tragically, there are also approximately 850 cervical cancer-related deaths each year too.
While this might all sound pretty scary, there is so much incredible research happening in the cervical cancer treatment space, leading to happier outcomes, and improved awareness means people are now able to recognise signs of the disease earlier too.
Screening is also key – so if you're over 25 and have started to receive invites from the NHS to get a test, make sure you attend (and if you're worried or nervous about it, your GP should listen to those concerns and put a plan in place to help you through the appointment).
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"Cervical cancer often doesn't present any noticeable symptoms until the disease is advanced. This is why it's vital that all women and assigned female at birth (AFAB) individuals attend their regular cervical screenings (smear tests)," Valentina Milanova, a women's health expert and founder of gynaecological health startup Daye tells Cosmopolitan UK.
Cervical screening tests check for HPV, which causes the majority of cervical cancer cases, explains Milanova. "Fortunately, if cervical cancer is detected early it is one of the most successfully treatable cancers," she adds.
It's also important to be aware of any new symptoms, which may include unusual vaginal bleeding, pain during sex, changes to vaginal discharge or pain in your lower back or between your hip bones.
Research from Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust previously showed that almost half of 18-24 year old women believed vaginal bleeding to be normal or expected, when in actuality it is one of the most common symptoms of cervical cancer and should generally be monitored and investigated. Over half of the 18-24-year-old females surveyed who had experienced unusual vaginal bleeding admitted to the charity that they did not tell their GP.
While more often than not, the symptoms associated with cervical cancer are likely down to an entirely unrelated reason, it's still important to get them checked out by a GP.
Here, Dr. Jan Schaefer, Chief Medical Officer at MEDIGO, and Valentina Milanova outline some of the signs of cervical cancer in more detail.
Symptoms of cervical cancer 1. Irregular bleeding"One of the most common and early signs of cervical cancer is irregular bleeding, which can happen between periods or after sex. Typically, this symptom begins to occur when the cancer cells grow on the tissue below the cervix. This is an especially alarming sign in postmenopausal women who no longer have periods," says Dr. Schaefer.
2. Unusual discharge"Another warning sign of cervical cancer could be unusual vaginal discharge, as defined by colour, smell or consistency. This happens when the cancer begins to lack oxygen, causing an infection that leads to discharge and a strange smell," according to Dr. Schaefer. "While vaginal discharge can be a symptom of many other things, vaginal discharge that persists over a long period of time is definitely worth seeing a GP about."
3. Pain during sex"Early stages of cervical cancer typically don't have any symptoms, but pain during intercourse, and bleeding afterwards, could be a sign that the cancer is spreading to the surrounding tissues," explains Dr. Schaefer.
4. Pain or discomfort while urinating"Cervical cancer can sometimes cause irritation or pressure on the bladder or urethra, leading to pain or discomfort during urination. This symptom should be monitored and investigated," advises Milanova.
5. Changes in bowel habits"In some cases, cervical cancer may affect the nearby rectum or colon, leading to changes in bowel habits such as constipation, diarrhoea, or blood in the stool," according to Milanova.
6. Unusual weight lossDr. Schaefer says, "A loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss can be symptoms of a number of cancers, including cervical cancer. It is a particularly telling sign if weight loss persists, no matter how much food is consumed."
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7. Sore legs"When cervical cancer grows, it might start to press against the nerves in the lower back, which can lead to leg pain and some swelling. Swelling and pain separately can be a symptom of a number of different conditions, but together they could indicate cervical cancer," continues Dr. Schaefer.
8. Lower back pain"Persistent pain in the lower back, pelvis or appendix area can also be a warning sign of cervical cancer, as pains in that region can be associated with reproductive organs," says Dr. Schaefer. "However, this is only a symptom of cervical cancer that has become quite advanced, so is only something to really worry about when it coincides with the above symptoms."
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9. Fatigue"While fatigue can be a symptom of many conditions, including cervical cancer, unexplained and persistent fatigue that doesn't improve with rest should be taken seriously and discussed with a healthcare professional," explains Milanova.
It's worth reiterating these symptoms could be indicative of a number of other health conditions. "The only way to know for certain if your symptoms could be cervical cancer is to get a smear test, which will detect any cancerous cells," says Dr. Schaefer.
Milanova adds, "If you or someone you know are experiencing any of the following symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor or your local sexual health clinic to investigate further."
This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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What Are The Symptoms Of Cervical Myelopathy
Cervical myelopathy is a condition that compresses your spinal cord. This happens due to narrowing or pressure in your cervical spine, or the neck region of your backbone. This condition is the most common cause of spinal damage in adults.
The symptoms of cervical myelopathy can start as mild, then progress. People who are diagnosed with cervical myelopathy early are usually able to stop this progression from happening. This generally leads to a better outcome.
Sometimes those early, mild symptoms are simply dismissed as typical signs of aging. That's why it's important to understand and be able to recognize the symptoms of cervical myelopathy.
When cervical myelopathy symptoms first appear, you might not be able to tell that someone serious is at play. According to a 2018 overview of this condition, early signs might include:
At first, cervical myelopathy symptoms may not seem too severe. You might have good days and bad days, but you probably won't have days where your symptoms are completely absent.
Those "good days" don't mean your condition is getting better on its own. As compression on the spinal cord increases, your symptoms will likely worsen and become more and more noticeable.
This 2018 clinical review notes that cervical myelopathy is a progressive condition. This means that symptoms grow worse over time.
After the initial stage, which consists mostly of neck pain and stiffness, other, more severe symptoms may begin to appear. These symptoms may include:
A 2019 study of 484 people with cervical myelopathy found that their most common symptom complaint was not neck pain. It was actually a loss of sensation in their upper limbs. These participants also reported difficulty moving their arms, legs, or both more than they reported having neck pain.
How does cervical myelopathy affect the body?
Your spinal cord delivers signals from your brain to the rest of your body. When the spinal cord is compressed, it can interrupt those signals. Over time, this compression can destroy neural tissue, the special tissue that regulates your body's movement. That's why cervical myelopathy impacts your range of motion and your fine motor skills in your upper extremities.
When cervical myelopathy is left untreated, it can start to impact your lower extremities, too. This can feel like losing your balance or loss of bladder control. Some people may eventually experience paralysis in their lower limbs.
Does cervical myelopathy affect the brain?
According to a study from 2020, yes, it can. The messages through your spinal cord go both ways — from your brain to your body and vice versa. When cervical myelopathy starts to progress, it limits the ability of your brain to interpret what your body is saying.
This can feel like numbness and tingling, cognition issues ("brain fog"), and a lack of spatial awareness.
When to talk with your doctorYou should speak with your doctor right away if you suspect that cervical myelopathy is a possibility. Symptoms that warrant scheduling a doctor's visit include:
You may also want to speak with your doctor if you have a family history of spinal stenosis or cervical myelopathy. Some people are genetically more likely to have a narrowed spinal column.
Experts recommend surgery to correct the compression on your spine in the majority of cervical myelopathy cases. Doctors used to take a more conservative approach to surgery since. This is because, as this 2018 overview suggests, there are potentially serious complications for any surgery performed on the neck and spine.
A 2016 review of the literature estimated that 11 to 38 percent of people with cervical myelopathy develop postsurgery complications. However, research now seems to indicate that the risks of surgery are minimal compared to the risk of waiting too long to treat cervical myelopathy.
Anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a surgery used to remove bone spurs or damaged disks in your neck. This surgery has a relatively high success rate. If you receive this surgery before there is significant damage to your neural tissue, it can help relieve your cervical myelopathy symptoms.
A 2020 retrospective review of 219 people who had ACDF for their cervical myelopathy found that people who had the most severe symptoms pre-surgery tended to experience the most relief from symptoms afterward. However, outcomes for people with mild and moderate symptoms still appeared to be very good.
In a 2020 study of 147 people with cervical myelopathy who had corrective surgery, 31 percent said that they experienced headaches prior to the surgery which might have been neurological pain. After the surgery, 43 percent of those people said that their headaches went away completely.
According to one 2013 study, the progression of cervical myelopathy is unpredictable. As of this 2016 review of 60 studies, this unpredictability is why doctors now recommend surgery for almost everyone with this condition.
Your condition will progress according to the underlying cause as well as other health factors. You may see your symptoms become more intense quite rapidly. Or, your condition may stay on a steady, gradual decline for several years before you notice a sharp decrease.
Your orthopedist or neurologist will be able to give you a better idea of how quickly your cervical myelopathy is progressing.
Living with cervical myelopathyCervical myelopathy can sometimes limit your mobility and affect almost every part of your life. But it doesn't have to cut you off from support. There are thousands of people going through the same thing that you are. You may find it helpful to reach out them:
Cervical myelopathy symptoms are mild in the beginning, but they can progress at an unpredictable rate. Getting an early diagnosis is the best way to prevent permanent damage to your spinal cord and the surrounding tissue.
If you are concerned about cervical myelopathy because of your symptoms, other health conditions, or family history, you should speak with your doctor to let them know that you think it's a possibility. A full physical exam, plus a CT scan or MRI, will help you determine the next steps.
5 Symptoms Of Cervical Cancer That Black Women Should Know
Cervical cancer is a serious health concern affecting women worldwide. However, its impact is particularly significant among Black women, who face higher rates of diagnosis and mortality. Awareness of the symptoms is crucial for early detection and effective treatment. This article will discuss the five key symptoms of cervical cancer that Black women should be aware of to protect their health.
Understanding cervical cancerCervical cancer begins in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is typically caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection. While not all HPV infections lead to cervical cancer, persistent infection with high-risk HPV types can cause abnormal changes in cervical cells, eventually leading to cancer. Early detection through regular screenings, such as Pap smears and HPV tests, is vital for preventing the progression of cervical cancer.
1. Unusual vaginal bleedingOne of the most common symptoms of cervical cancer is unusual vaginal bleeding. This can occur between menstrual periods, after sexual intercourse or even after menopause. The bleeding may be light or heavy and can sometimes be mistaken for irregular periods. Black women should be particularly vigilant about this symptom, as it often indicates that something is wrong. If you experience any unexpected bleeding, it is essential to consult your health care provider for further evaluation.
2. Pelvic painPelvic pain that is not related to menstruation or ovulation can be a sign of cervical cancer. This pain may be persistent or intermittent and can vary in intensity. It may be felt in the lower abdomen, back or even in the legs. Pelvic pain can result from the tumor pressing on surrounding tissues and organs. If you experience unexplained pelvic pain, it is crucial to seek medical advice to determine the underlying cause.
3. Unusual vaginal dischargeChanges in vaginal discharge can also be a symptom of cervical cancer. The discharge may become watery, bloody or have a foul odor. It might also be heavier than usual. While vaginal discharge can vary throughout the menstrual cycle, any significant or persistent changes should be addressed with your health care provider. They can conduct tests to rule out infections and other conditions that might cause abnormal discharge.
4. Pain during intercourseExperiencing pain during sexual intercourse, known as dyspareunia, can be another symptom of cervical cancer. This pain can occur due to inflammation, infection or the presence of a tumor in the cervix. It is important not to ignore this symptom, as it can significantly affect your quality of life and may indicate an underlying health issue. If you consistently experience pain during intercourse, discuss it with your health care provider to identify the cause and receive appropriate treatment.
5. Fatigue and unexplained weight lossFatigue and unexplained weight loss are general symptoms that can be associated with various health conditions, including cervical cancer. These symptoms may occur due to the body's response to the cancer or the cancer's impact on the body's metabolism. If you are experiencing persistent fatigue and significant weight loss without any apparent reason, it is important to seek medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in cervical cancer cases.
Importance of regular screeningsRegular cervical cancer screenings are vital for early detection and prevention. Pap smears and HPV tests can identify abnormal changes in cervical cells before they develop into cancer. Black women should prioritize these screenings, as early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. The American Cancer Society recommends that women begin cervical cancer screening at age 25 and continue through age 65, with the frequency depending on the type of test and individual risk factors.
Addressing health care disparitiesHealth care disparities contribute to the higher rates of cervical cancer diagnosis and mortality among Black women. Factors such as limited access to health care, socioeconomic barriers, and lack of awareness can hinder early detection and treatment. Health care providers and communities must address these disparities by promoting education, improving access to screenings and providing culturally competent care. By working together, we can ensure that all women — regardless of race — receive the care they need to prevent and treat cervical cancer.
Being proactive about cervical cancer symptomsCervical cancer is a significant health concern, particularly for Black women who face higher rates of diagnosis and mortality. Recognizing the symptoms of cervical cancer — including unusual vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, unusual vaginal discharge, pain during intercourse, fatigue and unexplained weight loss — is essential for early detection and treatment. Regular screenings, such as Pap smears and HPV tests, play a crucial role in preventing the progression of cervical cancer. By prioritizing these screenings and addressing health care disparities, we can work towards reducing the impact of cervical cancer on Black women and improving health outcomes for all.
If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned in this article, do not hesitate to consult your health care provider. Early detection and intervention are key to successful treatment. Remember, your health is your most valuable asset, and taking proactive steps to protect it can make a significant difference in your life.
This story was created using AI technology.
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