There are usually no early symptoms of cervical cancer, and most cases are identified during the Pap smear or only in the most advanced stages of cancer. Thus, in addition to knowing what the symptoms of cervical cancer are, the most important thing is to frequently consult the gynecologist to perform the pap smear and start early treatment, if indicated.
However, when it causes symptoms, cervical cancer can cause signs such as:
- Vaginal bleeding for no apparent reason and out of menstruation; Altered vaginal discharge, with a bad smell or brown color, for example; Constant abdominal or pelvic pain, which can get worse when using the bathroom or during intimate contact; Sensation of pressure in the bottom of the belly; Urge to urinate more frequently, even at night; Rapid weight loss without dieting.
In the most severe cases, in which the woman has advanced cervical cancer, the symptoms can also appear other symptoms such as excessive tiredness, pain and swelling in the legs, as well as involuntary loss of urine or feces.
These signs and symptoms can also be caused by other problems, such as candidiasis or vaginal infection, and may not be related to cancer, so it is advisable to consult the gynecologist to make the correct diagnosis. Check 7 signs that may indicate other problems in the uterus.
What to do in case of suspicion
When more than one of these symptoms appears, it is advisable to go to the gynecologist to do diagnostic tests such as a pap smear or colposcopy with a biopsy of the uterus tissue and assess whether there are cancer cells. Learn more about how these exams are done.
The Pap smear must be performed every year for 3 consecutive years. If there is no change, the exam should only be carried out every 3 years.
Who is most at risk of cancer
Uterine cancer is more common in women with:
- Sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea; HPV infection; Multiple sexual partners.
In addition, women who use oral contraceptives for many years also have a higher risk of cancer, and the longer the time of use, the greater the risk of cancer.
Understand how HPV infection can increase your risk of cervical cancer.
How the treatment is done
Almost always, treatment for uterine cancer can be done with conization, brachytherapy or radiation therapy, but if these approaches are not enough to cure the disease and if the woman no longer wishes to have children, surgery can be used to remove the uterus, preventing the disease from worsening.
See what happens after uterus removal surgery.
