Cervical cancer: Signs you should not ignore

In the earliest stages of development, there are typically a frightening lack of visual and physical symptoms to detect onset stages of cervical cancer. Many symptoms are not evident until the cancer has begun an invasive spread to surrounding tissue. Some of the most typical symptoms are:

1. Leg pain
Some women exhibiting early stages of cervical cancer experience swelling and pain in the leg. When the cervix swells, it can lead to an obstructed blood flow, which eventually causes the leg to swell and gives a sore, painful sensation.

2. Vaginal discharge
It is normal for a woman to experience small amounts of clear discharge without colour or odour. If the output of discharge increases, smells foul, or has any type of irregular appearance, it could be a sign of onset cervical cancer.

3. Unusual bleeding
Of all the symptoms, this is likely the most common. If a woman is experiencing an untimely bout of vaginal bleeding, it could be an indicator of cervical cancer. Consider contacting a physician if you experience persistent bleeding in between menstrual periods or following sexual intercourse. Women who are postmenopausal and no longer have periods should pay close attention to this symptom.

4. Discomfort while urinating
Keeping track of urination can help reveal the presence of cervical cancer in several ways. The most immediately obvious and prevalent symptom is discomfort while urinating. This is normally described as a tight and concentrating stinging sensation, but it can take on several different discomforting sensations. Usually, when urinary symptoms are involved, the cancer has spread to nearby tissue and requires immediate attention.

5. Irregular urination
The appearance of the urine and urinary habits can also be symptoms of cervical cancer. If you notice strange changes in the frequency of your urine, loss of bladder control (incontinence) or a discolouration – especially with blood – seek the input of a medical professional.

6. Irregular menstrual cycles
There should be some level of consistency when it comes to monthly periods. If time, frequency, or any other changes disrupt the regular routine, it may be linked to a future with cervical cancer. Take note of any medication you are on and consult a physician if inconsistencies persist.

7. Uncomfortable sex
Painful intercourse, otherwise known as dyspareunia, is another uncomfrotable side effect of cervical cancer. There are several possible reasons for this symptom to develop, as is the case with many of the symptoms on this list. This symptom is most commonly linked to conditions that require medical attention; however, it should not be ignored.

8. Pelvic pain
Pelvic pain is a fairly routine burden of being a woman. Cramping and aches during a menstrual cycle are perfectly normal, but when pain lasts for longer periods, happens frequently, or becomes more intense than usual it could beckon a look from the doctor.

9. Back pain
Back pain is common, affecting many women, and it can happen for a wide variety of reasons, but if accompanied with other symptoms from the list, go for a medical check-up.

10. Unexplained loss of weight and fatigue
Again, on its own, these symptoms can be a result of other factors, but when other symptoms are present, it should signal the need for a physical checkup. Cervical cancer can reduce the number of healthy red blood cells which are replaced by white blood cells that try fighting off the disease. This can cause anemia which typically causes the woman to feel unexplained fatigue, lack of energy, and can lead to weight loss due to a loss of appetite.

Prevention of Cervical Cancer

Treatment of cervical cancer is tough because it is often hard to detect in the earliest stages. For this reason, the best defence for women is preventative knowledge.

Pap test screening – Pap smears are the best way to test for cervical cancer, so they should be done regularly according to a woman’s age. WebMD recommends that women aged 20 to 30 get a screening every three years, 30 to 65 every three to five years, and women 65 and older need no further screening if they have had three tests in a row with regular results.

HPV Vaccine – Some medical professionals advocate HPV vaccines for women and men before their early 20s. They claim it is essential for preventing the virus that causes cervical cancer. Female children can get their first vaccination at as early as nine years old.

No smoking – People that are exposed to cigarettes, even those who are only around secondhand smoke, face a greater risk of contracting cervical cancer. If you smoke, consider the multitude of health benefits that come from quitting, and the tonne of health risks you face by continuing.

Prevent sexually transmitted diseases – HPV can exist in a sexual partner with a deceptive lack of symptoms. Having a firm grasp of your sexual partner’s history will help you reduce the risk of cervical cancer. When in doubt, always use protection.

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