More than 40 years ago cervical cancer was a major cancer death risk for women. With the development of pap tests and in-depth recognition of warning signs those numbers are dropping significantly. We still aren’t completely safe however, as many thousands of American women are still affected by cervical cancer every year. Picking up on risk factors and warning signs could save an individual from a lifetime of suffering.
Cervical Cancer Risk Factors:
Acknowledging the risk factors that make women more likely to contract cervical cancer will help women to reveal a greater insight to their cancer risk.
Warning Signs of Cervical Cancer:
In the earliest stages of development, there is typically a frightening lack of visual and physical symptoms to foreshadow onset stages of cervical cancer. Many symptoms aren’t evident until the cancer has begun an invasive spread to surrounding tissue. Some of the most typical symptoms are as follows:
- Leg Pain
Some women exhibiting early stages of cervical cancer experience swelling and pain in the leg. When the cervix swells it can lead to an obstructed blood flow, which eventually causes the leg to swell and gives a sore, painful sensation.
- Vaginal Discharge
It’s normal for a woman to experience small amounts of clear discharge without color or odor. If the output of discharge increases, smells foul, or has any type of irregular appearance, it could be a sign of onset cervical cancer.
- Unusual Bleeding
Of all the symptoms, this is doubtless and the most common one. If a lady is experiencing an untimely bout of vaginal bleeding, it may be a call from cervical cancer. Think about contacting a doctor if you experience persistent bleeding in between menstrual periods or following sexual intercourse. Women who are postmenopausal and no longer have periods should pay close attention to this symptom.
- Discomfort While Urinating
Pain during urination can be a sign of cervical cancer; this is a symptom that usually occurs when the cancer has already spread to the bladder. In most cases, however, this type of pain is a sign of something far less serious, like a urinary tract infection.
- Irregular Urination
The appearance of the urine and urinary habits can also be symptoms of cervical cancer. If you notice strange changes in the frequency of your urine, loss of bladder control (incontinence) or a discoloration – especially with blood – seek the input of a medical professional.
- Irregular Menstrual Cycles
There should be some level of consistency when it comes to monthly periods. If time, frequency, or any other changes disrupt the regular routine, it may be linked to a future with cervical cancer. Take note of any medication you are on and consult a physician if inconsistencies persist.
- Pain During Sex
Discomfort during sexual intercourse could also be another sign. Again, just to reiterate, many of these symptoms signify a far less worrisome issue, but you never know, especially if you are experiencing multiple symptoms at once. Pain during sex can be a late onset symptom of cervical cancer, and could indicate that the cancer has spread throughout the reproductive organs and tissues.
- Pelvic pain
Pelvic pain is something every woman experiences at some point. PMS makes sure we get our fill of cramps and aches, but if it lasts for an extended amount of time and becomes frequent, it could be an indication of cervical cancer. This symptom also occurs when the cancer has advanced, and can occur anytime during the month.
- Body Pain
A common symptom of cervical cancer is body pains, more specifically, pain in the leg, back, and/or pelvis. Women with cervical cancer often experience swelling of the legs, because the cancer spreads and obstructs blood flow. It can get to the point where basic simple movements are difficult to do. It’s common for women who are experiencing these symptoms as a result of cervical cancer to have prolonged pain which increases as time goes on.
- Unexplained weight loss and fatigue
Just like other forms of cancer, unexplained weight loss is an indicator of cervical cancer. When trying to fight off cancer, the immune system works hard, which causes the cytokines (small proteins in the body) to break down fat at a higher rate than normal, which causes the weight loss. If you are experiencing this symptom as well as others on this list, contact your doctor immediately.
Many people feel tired after a busy day, but if you can’t shake the feeling of always being tired, even after you have rested, this could indicate cervical cancer. The reason behind the fatigue is the red blood cells that are being replaced by white blood cells to fight off the cancer, which leads to anemia which causes fatigue and lack of an appetite. Aside from that, there is also a decrease in the oxygen supply to the blood.