CERVICAL CANCER

CERVICAL CANCER

1. What Is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is a disease where abnormal cells grow in the cervix—the lower part of the uterus (womb) that opens into the vagina.

It usually develops slowly over many years and is highly preventable with screening and vaccination.

2. Causes

The main cause is persistent infection with Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted virus.

Only certain types (especially HPV 16 and 18) cause most cervical cancers.

3. Risk Factors

You are at higher risk if you:

• Have HPV infection

• Have multiple sexual partners

• Began sexual activity early

• Smoke

• Have a weakened immune system

• Had long-term oral contraceptive use

• Have a family history of cervical cancer

4. Signs & Symptoms

Early Stage (Often No Symptoms)

Cervical cancer often begins silently.

When Symptoms Appear

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding

  
  

  • After sex

  • Between periods

  • After menopause

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• Unusual discharge (watery, bloody, foul-smelling)

• Pelvic pain

• Pain during intercourse

5. Symptoms vs. Normal Conditions

Possible Cervical Cancer Symptoms

Possible Non-Cancer Causes

Bleeding after sex

Cervical irritation, infection, hormonal imbalance

Bleeding between periods

Fibroids, hormonal changes, stress, perimenopause

Foul-smelling vaginal discharge

Yeast infection, BV, PID

Pelvic pain

Fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometriosis

Painful sex

Vaginal dryness, infection, muscle tension

Important: Any persistent abnormal bleeding or unusual discharge should be checked by a healthcare provider.

6. Prevention Measures

✔ HPV Vaccination

• Safe and highly effective.

• Protects against the most dangerous HPV types.

• Recommended for boys and girls ages 9–45.

✔ Regular Screening

• Pap tests detect precancerous cells early.

✔ Safe Sexual Practices

Condom use lowers (but does not eliminate) HPV risk.

✔ No smoking

Smoking weakens cervical cells.

7. Screening Schedule (Canada-Based)

Ontario & Most Canadian Provinces

• Ages 21–24: Pap test every 3 years

• Ages 25–69: Primary HPV test every 5 years (or Pap test where HPV testing is not implemented)

• Age 70+: Screening stops if you had 3 normal tests in the last 10 years.

Women with special conditions (HIV, organ transplant, immune-suppressed) need more frequent testing.

8. How Cervical Cancer Is Diagnosed

• Pap test – Finds abnormal cells

• HPV test – Detects cancer-causing HPV types

• Colposcopy – A closer exam using a special microscope

• Biopsy – Sample of cervix tissue for confirmation

• Imaging tests (MRI, CT, PET scan) – Determine the stage

9. Treatment Options by Stage

● Stage 0 (Carcinoma in situ / Precancer)

Goal: Remove abnormal cells.

Treatments:

• LEEP procedure

• Cryotherapy

• Laser therapy

• Cone biopsy

● Stage I (Cancer limited to cervix)

Treatments:

• Surgery (cone biopsy or hysterectomy)

• Radiation therapy

• Chemoradiation (combination therapy)

● Stage II (Cancer beyond cervix but not to pelvic walls)

Treatments:

• Chemoradiation

• Radiation alone in selected cases

• Surgery (less common)

● Stage III (Cancer spread to pelvic walls or lymph nodes)

Treatment:

• Chemoradiation is standard

• Brachytherapy (internal radiation)

● Stage IV (Cancer spread to bladder, rectum, or distant organs)

Treatments:

• Chemotherapy

• Radiation therapy for symptoms

• Targeted therapy (e.g., bevacizumab)

• Immunotherapy (e.g., pembrolizumab for certain cases)

10. When to See a Doctor Immediately

Seek medical care if you experience:

• Bleeding after sex

• Any post-menopausal bleeding

• Heavy or persistent bleeding

• Foul discharge

• Pelvic pain that does not go away

Early detection saves lives.

11. Patient-Friendly Advice

• Keep track of your screening appointments

• Complete the HPV vaccine series

• Avoid smoking

• Practice safe sex

• Report unusual symptoms early