What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervix is the lower narrow part of the uterus which connects the uterus to the vagina. Uterus is a pear shaped hollow organ which forms a part of the female reproductive system – where the baby grows during pregnancy. Cervix opens into vagina (birth cannel) which leads to the outside of the body.

Cervical cancer is the cancer of the cervix and is the most common cancer which strikes a woman’s reproductive organs. Most of the cervical cancers are due to human papillomavirus (HPV) also known as cervical cancer virus which is transmitted mainly through sexually transmitted diseases. An immune system of the women however prevents the virus to do any harm after she is exposed to HPV and in some women the virus survives for years before it performs its job – converting the normal cells into cancerous ones.

Regular pelvic exams and pap tests are important to detect cervical cancer at an early stage.  These tests are necessary because a woman may not experience any signs and symptom at an early stage of the disease. As the cancer progresses signs and symptoms of cervical cancer may appear which include -

1. Vaginal bleeding between periods or after menopause which is followed after an intercourse
2. Heavy watery or bloody vaginal discharge with a foul odor and
3. Pain during intercourse and pelvic pain

Certain risk factors about cervical cancer which tend to increase your chances for getting this disease include – early sexual activity before the age of 18 years, other sexually transmitted diseases, different sexual partners, cigarette smoking and a weak immune system. Certain preventive measures like having fewer sexual partners, delay in the first intercourse and no smoking can greatly reduce the risk of developing cervical cancers in women. Any unusual signs and symptoms which you experience should be brought to notice with your specialist for an early diagnosis and treatment.

Cervical Cancer Facts

1. According to American Cancer Society every year approximately 11,000 cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed in United States and nearly 4,000 die of this invasive cancer.
2. Cervical cancer is the third leading cause of death among women around the world.
3. Due to early pap tests the death rate of cervical cancer has decreased tremendously over the past 50 years.