5 Symptoms of Cervical Cancer You Must Be Aware About

When the abnormal cells in the abdomen start to grow abnormally and grow out of control then it is termed as cervical cancer. Cervical cancer occurs in the cervix which is the lower part of the uterus and opens into the vagina. In normal condition the ‘ectocervix’ looks pink in color and is covered with thin cells known as squamous cells. However the cervical canal or ‘endocervix’ is made up of columnar cells. The area in the cervix where these cells overlap is known as T-zone or ‘transformation zone’. It is in this location that the precancerous or abnormal cell growth takes place.

If cervical cancer is diagnosed in its early stage then it can easily be treated. Cervical cancer is a very common cancer among the women all over the world. But the good news is that since it develops over a period of time, cervical cancer can be easily cured with medications. Deaths’ resulting due to cervical cancer in women is as low as 2% every year. However it is very common among the women of the United States and also other countries. An average of three thousand and one hundred women is diagnosed with cervical cancer every year in the United Kingdom. Out of every woman out 100 women who are diagnosed with cancer everyday are actually diagnosed with cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer generally occurs among those women who are under the age of 35 years. It occurs mainly during midlife and is very rare in women below the age of 20 years. It is therefore important that after crossing the age of 35 and until the age of 70, women must undergo cervical cancer screening immediately.

* Unusual Bleeding

Abnormal bleeding is the most common cervical cancer symptoms. Abnormal bleeding from the vagina such as bleeding after vaginal intercourse that bleeding after sex, bleeding and spotting in between periods,, bleeding after menopause, having heavier or longer menstrual flow than normal. Bleeding after a pelvic exam or a douching is also a common symptom of the cervical cancer.

* Pelvic and Back Pain

Experiencing pelvic and back pain is extremely common, particularly for women. During the menstrual cycle most of the women experience aches and cramping, which is very normal and not at all alarming. However if this condition persists for longer duration, turns out to be very frequent and severe, it is important to immediately consult a doctor. Cervical pains and cramps at unusual times are indicative of the developing cancerous tumour.

* Unexpected Weight Loss

Sudden loss in the appetite resulting in weight loss can be cause of any other medical condition. However when coupled with other factors, unintentional weight loss must not be ignored and should be checked immediately with the doctor. During the time of cancerous growth, the immune system of the body fights against it. In this process the body produces tiny proteins known as ‘cytokines’ that generate energy by breaking down fat at a comparatively higher rate. This causes unexpected weight loss, regardless of the diet that you are following.

* Leg Pain

During the early stages of cervical cancer, some women experience pain or swelling in their legs. This is because during the growth of cancerous tissues, the cervix swells up and causes obstruction to the flow of blood to the limbs. This causes swelling in the legs that also gives a painful sensation.

* Painful Intercourse

In medical terminology, painful intercourse is referred as ‘sex dyspareunia’ and is one of the predominant causes of cervical cancer. Painful intercourse is indicative of the advanced stages of cervical cancer wherein the cancer has spread to other tissues and reached the reproductive organs.