Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
Symptoms of cervical cancer often go unnoticed in the early stages, which is why regular screening is so important. When signs do appear, they usually relate to changes in vaginal bleeding, discharge, or pelvic discomfort. Recognising the symptoms can lead to faster diagnosis and more effective treatment.
1. Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
The most common early symptom is unusual vaginal bleeding. This may include:
- Bleeding between periods
- Bleeding after sexual intercourse
- Heavier or longer periods than normal
- Postmenopausal bleeding
Any unexpected bleeding should be investigated, even if it seems minor.
2. Unusual Vaginal Discharge
A watery, pink, or foul-smelling discharge may indicate changes in the cervix. While vaginal discharge is common, sudden changes in smell, colour, or volume are worth discussing with a healthcare provider.
3. Pelvic or Lower Back Pain | Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
Pain in the lower abdomen or back may develop as the cancer grows and presses on nearby organs or nerves. This is more common in advanced cases.
4. Pain During Intercourse
Discomfort or pain during sex (dyspareunia) can be an early warning sign, especially when combined with bleeding after intercourse.
5. Urinary or Bowel Changes
As the cancer spreads, it may affect the bladder or rectum. Symptoms can include:
- Pain during urination
- Frequent urination
- Blood in the urine
- Constipation
- Difficulty with bowel movements
6. Swelling and Fatigue | Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
In advanced stages, cervical cancer may lead to swelling of the legs, unexplained fatigue, or weight loss. These are signs that the disease may have spread to lymph nodes or other organs.
Because symptoms of cervical cancer often do not appear until the disease is advanced, preventative screening is essential. Early-stage cervical cancer is usually asymptomatic, which makes Pap tests and HPV testing life-saving tools.
[Next: Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer →]
