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The cervix is the lower part of the uterus and is accessible through the vagina during a pelvic exam. Pap smears, performed during a pelvic exam, enable a doctor to take cells from the cervix and have them tested for abnormalities. This test is quick, relatively painless and normally only causes very mild discomfort. When caught early in its pre-cancerous stage, known as cervical dysplasia, Cervical cancer is entirely curable. Unfortunately, the disease must fully develop into cancer before symptoms manifest. This is why yearly Pap smears are so vitally important. Pap smears catch the tell-tale abnormal cells before they become cancerous and before women have any symptoms. Treatments for cervical dysplasia include freezing the abnormal cells, using a laser to destroy them, excision and biopsy. Hysterectomy is also an option for women past their childbearing years.
The metamorphosis from dysplasia to cancer can take years or even a decade or more. One of the main symptoms of cervical cancer is abnormal bleeding. Any bleeding or spotting between periods, after intercourse, partial hysterectomy or after menopause should be immediately checked out by a doctor. Abnormal vaginal discharge that is watery, pink, bloody or brown may also be a symptom. Other seemingly innocuous symptoms that women may not associate with cervical cancer are pelvic pain, lower Back pain and pain during urination and sexual intercourse. Hysterectomy which removes the uterus and cervix is one treatment for cervical cancer. This may be a good option for women who have gone through menopause or women who do not want to have children or have more children.
Chemotherapy may be used when the cancer has spread, or to attempt to shrink the tumor before radiation treatment. Chemotherapy and radiation are used for more advanced stages of the disease. Early cancers may be treated with the same procedures used for cervical dysplasia: freezing, laser and excision. These methods are utilized when the cervix needs to be preserved so that the patient can attempt to bear children after the disease is treated. The key to catching abnormal cells before they develop into cancer is yearly Pap smears. Even women who have never been sexually active need these tests. Cervical dysplasia is 100% treatable if caught before it becomes cancer.
What else can I help you with?
Is it safe to get pregnant after the first dose of cervical cancer vaccine?
If you have cervical cancer then nothing is safe. You will die if it is not treated.
Where can I find more information on cervical cancer symptoms ?
One of the best sites to use to learn the symptoms of cervical cancer is the Mayo Clinic. The Mayo Clinic site offers detailed and factual information. Their web address is www.mayoclinic.com/health/cervical-cancer/DS00167.
What is the survival rate of early cervical cancer?
When cervical cancer is detected and treated in its early stages, however, the long-term rate of survival is almost 100%.
Should pap smears be delayed until the appearance of cervical cancer symptoms?
Pap smears should not be delayed until the appearance of cervical cancer symptoms. It is recommended that pap smears be done as early as possible because if signs of cervical cancer are caught early, then there is a very high chance of curing it.
What are good cervical cancer treatments?
Cervical cancer can be treated with radiation therapy, surgery, or by chemotherapy. The choices all have there own pros and cons. You would have to decide which is right for you.
How do you get cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is caused by human papilomavirus virus, or HPV, usually spread through unprotected sex. It can inhibit in one's body without manifesting itself as symptoms.
How do I recognize early warning signs of cervical cancer?
Your doctor will have to run tests in order to determine if it is cervical cancer, but some symptoms as it progresses are: abnormal bleeding, bleeding after intercourse and discharge.
What is Clinical manifestations of cervical cancer?
Clinical manifestations of cervical cancer often include abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding between periods or after sexual intercourse, and unusual vaginal discharge that may be watery, bloody, or have a foul odor. Other symptoms can include pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and urinary symptoms if the cancer spreads to nearby tissues. In advanced stages, cervical cancer may lead to symptoms like leg swelling or kidney issues due to obstruction. Regular screenings, such as Pap smears, are crucial for early detection, as early-stage cervical cancer may not present noticeable symptoms.
What are the symptoms of cervical cancer on young people under 10?
People under ten most likely do not have cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is caused by a sexually transmitted virus called HPV. If a person under 10 has HPV, the authorities will be notified to check for molestation and abuse.
How is cervical cancer different from other cancers?
Cervical cancer is cancer of the cells lining the cervix which is the passage between the uterus and the vagina. You can prevent cervical cancer by monitoring risk factors for cervical cancer. Find out more about the several risk factors that increase your chance of developing cervical cancer.
What are the most common cervical cancer symptoms?
If you are at all concerned, looking for symptoms and trying to self-diagnose can have potentially very serious consequences. Instead, talk to your physician about routine cervical cancer screening (PAP smears or liquid-based cytology) programs that might be available to you.
What are the warning signs of cervical cancer?
Unusual bleeding and pain in the pelvis are early signs of cervical cancer. You should see the doctor as soon as you experience these symptoms. for more info look at http://www.medicinenet.com/cervical_cancer/article.htm
