One of the deadliest types of gynecological cancer is Cervical cancer is – actually has a high rate of successful treatment if early detected. It is usually caused by the human papilloma virus -HPV, highly contagious. This type is sexually transmitted, and interesting comes in over 100 types. Some lead to cervical cancer. But If your immune system is strong, a HPV may disappear, until, if low immunity, it may trigger abnormal cell growth which results as cervical malignancy.
Here are 7 signs of cervical cancer
If any of these occurs you must visit a gynecologist immediately:
- Unusual discharge– is a common symptom of this type of cancer. When cancer starts growing inside the cervix, uterine cells lining starts secreting watery discharge.
- 2. Warts– Appearance of small warts -external or internal- is a red flag for some HPV, and it greatly increases chances of cervical cancer
- Pain or bleeding–pelvic discomfort and bleeding also typical signs of cervical cancer. It comes because the walls of the cervix dry out and crack due to abnormal cell growth. But, rectal or bladder bleeding also occur though in more advanced stage. It means that any bleeding that comes outside menstrual period requires immediate medical attention.
- Anemia– often accompanies cervical cancer due to excessive bleeding. If you feel constantly tired and eating habits are the same, or heartbeat increases even in slightest effort, you must be examined for anemia and the reason for it
- Urinary problems–Difficulty urinating is one more sign of cervical cancer. Swelling of cervix presses the bladder and kidneys impeding urine passage.
6 . Continuous pain in the legs, hips or back– swollen cervix affect kidneys and bladder, but also internal organs. It puts pressure on the blood vessels , inhibit blood flow to pelvis and legs and therefore producing pain and ankles and legs swelling ..
- Weight loss–Loss of appetite also weight comes along with most types of cancer. In this case swollen cervix puts pressure on the stomach, and leads to appetite and weight loss.
VERY IMPORTANT – These symptoms can also be produced by other conditions. But, reporting to gynecologist is vital for early detection. Numerous risk factors can lead to contracting HPV infection, and it is found in both, men and women.
The best-known risk factors:
- Being second-hand smoker
- multiple sexual partners
- unprotected sex
- low immunity
Having regular Pap smear tests twice a year increases your chances of early detection of this cancer.