Symptoms and identification methods

Cervical cancer is a fatal disease in the reproductive tract of women, which affects only women. This cancer originates in the cells of the cervix, i.e. the part that connects the uterus to the vagina.

According to the World Health Organization, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women. In India, it is second only to breast cancer. Often women come to the doctor in the advanced stage of this disease, due to which the death toll due to cervical cancer increases.

doctor’s opinion

According to Dr. Rakesh Kumar Sharma, head of the department of medical oncology, Shelby Sanner International Hospitals (Gurugram), cervical cancer usually occurs in women aged 35 to 44 years, and cases are less in women younger than 20 years. But its risk is never zero.

Like most cancers, cervical cancer can also cause metastasis (spread of cancer cells to nearby organs). It is usually caused by HPV (human papilloma virus), which is a sexually transmitted infection.

Do you have cervical cancer?

The initial symptoms of cervical cancer are often not visible, but there are some signs to pay attention to. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact a doctor immediately:

1. vaginal bleeding: If you are having abnormal or irregular bleeding apart from periods, especially after having sex or after menopause, it could be a sign of cervical cancer.
2. pelvic pain: If you are feeling pain and cramps in the pelvis apart from periods, then it can be a symptom of cancer.
3. abnormal vaginal discharge: Vaginal discharge is normal in women of reproductive age, but if the discharge is foul-smelling and abnormal, it could be a sign of cervical cancer.
4. getting tired quickly: If you always feel tired without any reason, it could be a sign of cervical cancer.
5. pain during sex: If you feel pain again and again during sex, do not ignore it, as it can be a sign of advanced cervical cancer.

Keep these symptoms in mind and if any of these symptoms appear, consult a doctor immediately. The situation can be improved with timely identification and treatment.