Cervical cancer kills many women every year. The disease can be combated, but early treatment is necessary. This is why it is so important that women are regularly screened and able to recognize the early symptoms of cervical cancer. Cervical cancer, like other cancers, does not show any symptoms at first. The disease develops gradually, causing changes that are easy to see on histopathological examination (biopsy). Cytology, to which women so often turn, makes it possible to diagnose alarming changes at an early stage and to carry out appropriate treatment. When cancer is detected quickly, treatment is almost always successful. Cervical Cancer - Symptoms Here are a few symptoms you shouldn't ignore: Bleeding between periods is the most common symptom of cervical cancer. Bleeding can occur between periods, but also after intercourse. More intense periods before menopause and postmenopausal bleeding can also be associated with cervical cancer. Abnormal vaginal discharge - an unpleasant odor should be the main concern. Vaginal discharge can also be stained with blood. Be aware that many different vaginal infections can cause vaginal odor and discharge. It doesn't have to be cancer. Lack of strength - fatigue accompanies any serious illness. This can indicate any cancer, but it can also be the result of at least a vitamin deficiency or extreme stress. However, if fatigue occurs along with other anxiety symptoms, it cannot be ignored. Pelvic pain - Pain can occur on its own, but often occurs during or immediately after intercourse. Frequent urination - not only the frequent urge to urinate, but also pain at the same time should be alarming. If a woman regularly goes to the gynecologist and conducts preventive examinations, possible cancer can be detected even before the onset of alarming symptoms. This is also the best time for treatment. Cervical Cancer - Prevention You can reduce your risk of developing cervical cancer. First of all, you must reduce the risk of contracting the HPV virus (a disease that develops due to an infection of a viral origin). To do this, you can take a special vaccine that protects against a dangerous sexually transmitted virus. The factors that increase the risk of infection are the early onset of sexual intercourse and the frequent change of sexual partners. The vaccine is best taken before sexual activity begins. Other ways to prevent cervical cancer include: regular visits to the gynecologist, regular cytology, safer sex practices, and restriction of sexual partners to quit smoking
