Let’s talk about cervical cancer
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is cancer of the cervix, which is the opening between the vagina and the uterus. It occurs when abnormal cells grow in a person’s cervix. Nearly all cervical cancers occur after exposure to the human papillomavirus (HPV). The abnormal cells multiply and grow out of control, forming tumours. Cervical cancer can also spread to other nearby organs, such as the uterus and vagina, or to distant parts of the body.
Why should I know about it?
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STI). You can get HPV from any skin-to-skin contact of the genital area; from oral, anal, and vaginal sex, and also from sharing sex toys. HPV is also the cause of genital warts and can cause anal, penile, vaginal, and vulval cancers. For most people, the virus clears up on its own. If it doesn’t, cancer may develop years later. There is no way to predict who will develop cervical cancer after exposure.
The vaccine is recommended for anyone who has access, especially those at risk (such as sex workers and people with HIV). The vaccine also guards against other HPV-related cancers (Anal cancer, Oropharyngeal (back of the throat) cancer, Penile cancer, Vaginal cancer, Vulvar cancer).
How can I spot cervical cancer - what are the symptoms?
Bleeding between periods or after the menopause
Changes in periods or menstrual bleeding, especially periods that are longer or heavier than normal
Frequent or unexplained pain in your pelvis or lower back
Pain during sex
Bleeding from your vagina after having sex, douching or undergoing a pelvic exam
Discharge from your vagina that is heavier than normal, changes from a normal milky white or slightly yellow colour, or has a strong odour.
Symptoms of more advanced cervical cancer can include:
Blood in your pee
Bone fractures
Difficulty with peeing
Constipation
Tiredness or fatigue
Leg swelling and leg pain
Severe back pain
Unexplained weight loss.
What can I do to prevent or manage cervical cancer?
If you have access to the HPV vaccine, it can help prevent cervical cancer by preventing the most important strains of HPV that cause cervical cancer. Doctors recommend the HPV vaccine for girls between the ages of nine and 26.
You can increase the likelihood of preventing cervical cancer by going for regular cervical smears which will be performed by a healthcare professional. Cervical smears check for abnormal cells and test cell samples for HPV. All women between 25 and 64 years should go for cervical screening every three years if possible.
Every patient who experiences cervical cancer is different, so the earlier you notice symptoms and report them to your doctor the better. Doctors and medical teams are best equipped to advise you on the next steps.
