Overview
Cervical cancer develops slowly from abnormal cell changes. Regular screening can find these changes early, when they can be treated before cancer develops.
Symptoms
- Often no symptoms in the early stages
- Bleeding between periods, after sex or after menopause
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Pain during sex or pelvic pain
Causes and risk factors
Almost all cases are caused by long-term infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Smoking, a weakened immune system and lack of screening increase the risk.
Diagnosis
Screening uses a Pap smear and/or HPV test. Abnormal results are followed by colposcopy and a biopsy. Scans help find out how far the cancer has spread.
Treatment
Early changes can be removed with simple procedures. Cancer is treated with surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, depending on the stage. HPV vaccination helps prevent it.
When to see a doctor
See a gynaecologist for regular screening, and promptly for bleeding after sex, between periods or after menopause.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
