Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in a woman’s cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects with the vagina.
In its early stages, cervical cancer may not show any symptoms, making it difficult to detect and diagnose.
It is essential to know the symptoms of cervical cancer so that you can detect it as early as possible and receive the appropriate treatment. Here are some of the symptoms of cervical cancer that you should not ignore:.
1. Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
One of the most common symptoms of cervical cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding, which may occur between periods, after sexual intercourse, or after menopause. This bleeding may be light or heavy and may last for several days.
If you experience any abnormal vaginal bleeding, you should speak to your doctor as soon as possible. They may recommend further tests, such as a Pap smear or a biopsy, to determine the cause of the bleeding.
2. Pain During Sexual Intercourse
Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse is another symptom of cervical cancer that women should not ignore. This may occur due to the growth of the tumor in the cervix, which can cause pressure or pain during sex.
If you experience pain during intercourse, you should speak to your doctor. They may recommend further tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to determine the underlying cause of the pain.
3. Unusual Vaginal Discharge
Unusual vaginal discharge is another symptom of cervical cancer that women should be aware of. This discharge may be thick and foul-smelling and may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as pain, itching, or burning in the vaginal area.
If you experience any unusual vaginal discharge, you should speak to your doctor. They may perform further tests, such as a pelvic exam or a Pap smear, to determine the underlying cause of the discharge.
4. Pelvic Pain
Pelvic pain is another symptom of cervical cancer that women should be aware of. This pain may occur in the lower abdomen or pelvis and may be mild or severe. It may also be accompanied by other symptoms, such as vaginal bleeding or discharge.
If you experience any pelvic pain, you should speak to your doctor. They may recommend further tests, such as an ultrasound, to determine the underlying cause of the pain.
5. Back Pain
Back pain may also be a symptom of cervical cancer, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms, such as abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge. This pain may occur in the lower back or pelvis and may be persistent or intermittent.
If you experience any back pain, you should speak to your doctor. They may recommend further tests, such as an MRI or X-ray, to determine the underlying cause of the pain.
6. Difficulty Urinating
Difficulty urinating is another symptom of cervical cancer that women should not ignore.
This may occur due to the growth of the tumor in the cervix, which can put pressure on the bladder and cause urinary problems, such as frequent urination or urine leakage.
If you experience any difficulty urinating, you should speak to your doctor. They may perform further tests, such as a urine test or an ultrasound, to determine the underlying cause of the problem.
7. Swollen Legs
Swollen legs may also be a symptom of cervical cancer, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms, such as pelvic pain or back pain.
This may occur due to the growth of the tumor in the cervix, which can put pressure on the blood vessels and cause fluid buildup in the legs.
If you experience any swollen legs, you should speak to your doctor. They may perform further tests, such as an MRI or ultrasound, to determine the underlying cause of the swelling.
8. Fatigue
Fatigue is another symptom of cervical cancer that women should be aware of. This may occur due to the body’s immune response to the tumor, which can cause fatigue and weakness.
If you experience any fatigue, you should speak to your doctor. They may perform further tests, such as a blood test or a biopsy, to determine the underlying cause of the fatigue.
9. Weight Loss
Weight loss is another symptom of cervical cancer that women should not ignore. This may occur due to the body’s response to the tumor, which can cause a decrease in appetite and weight loss.
If you experience any unexplained weight loss, you should speak to your doctor. They may recommend further tests, such as a CT scan or an MRI, to determine the underlying cause of the weight loss.
10. Anemia
Anemia is another symptom of cervical cancer that women should be aware of. This may occur due to the growth of the tumor in the cervix, which can cause bleeding and lead to a decrease in the number of red blood cells in the body.
If you experience any symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue, weakness, or lightheadedness, you should speak to your doctor. They may perform further tests, such as a blood test, to determine the cause of the anemia.
Early detection of cervical cancer is essential for successful treatment. If you experience any of the above symptoms, you should speak to your doctor as soon as possible.