What are the symptoms of cervical cancer, how is it treated, is there a cure, and how do I get a smear test?

Visceral cancer is a monstrous disease with tragic consequences that can occur.

But being aware of that, the symptoms and why it’s important to apply the medication regularly can be a lifesaver.

first

Cervical cancer is what?

Cervical cancer is defined as when the disease begins in the cervix, also known as the cervix.

From 2016-2018, there were 3,197 new cases – and 854 deaths, meaning it was the most common form of the disease in women under 35.

Generally, it is caused by persistent infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), is concluded through sexual intercourse.

Thankfully, most young women in the UK are now vaccinated against the disease, although boys have not.

Two strains of the HPV virus (HPV 16 and HPV 18) are known to cause most cases, but most women who get them do not develop cervical cancer.

What are the symptoms of cervical cancer?

There are no obvious symptoms in the early stages of cervical cancer – that’s why it’s best to keep an eye on your test results when prompted by your GP.

However, vaginal bleeding can often be a warning sign, especially if it occurs after sex, between periods, or after menopause.

That said, unusual bleeding is not a definitive sign of a medical condition, just a possible sign.

However, it should be investigated by your GP as soon as possible.

Other warning signs include:

• pain and discomfort during sex
• Unusual or uncomfortable vaginal discharge
• pain in your lower back or pelvis

And if it spreads to other organs, signs may include:

• pain in your lower back or pelvis
• severe pain in your side or back caused by your kidneys
• constipation
• urinating or urinating more than usual
• lose control of your bladder or bowels
• blood in your urine
• swelling in one or both legs
• severe vaginal bleeding

How can I screen for cervical cancer?

Cervical examination, or smear test, is a preventive swab used to detect abnormal cells on the cervix – the entrance to the uterus from the vagina.

Detecting these cells and then removing them can prevent cervical cancer. It is not a test for cervical cancer.

Most women’s results show that everything is perfectly normal – the test detects abnormalities in about one in 20 women.

Cervical screening is done under the NHS Cervical Screening Programme, introduced in the 1980s.

Every woman over the age of 25 with a GP is invited to be seen – and whether you’re having sex or not.

Women of all ages can get cervical cancer, but it’s very rare in women under 25.

If a sample tests positive for high-risk HPV, the cells are then analyzed for abnormalities.

If abnormalities are found, the woman will be referred for colposcopy for further analysis.

For more information, visit Jo’s Certified Cancer Trust.

If diagnosed, how is the disease treated?

Treatment depends on the stage and severity of each case, but there are several ways to treat cervical cancer.

Usually, it is possible to have surgery without removing the uterus (hysterectomy) although it is a fairly routine procedure.

Additionally, radiation therapy is a popular option for people with early-stage disease.

Meanwhile, more severe cases may require both surgery and radiation, plus additional chemotherapy.

What is the probability of overcoming cervical cancer?

Fortunately, this condition is almost entirely preventable and can be predicted with routine smear tests.

And, even if you – or a loved one – is diagnosed, it still has an average survival rate of 51%, according to a statistic from 2013-2017 in the UK.

For women with stage 1 disease, the 5-year survival rate can be 99%.

For stage 2, that number becomes 60-90%, while stage 3 is 30-50%.

People with stage 4 cervical cancer have a one in five chance of fighting the disease and living more than half a decade.