5 Subtle Signs of Cervical Cancer Women Often Miss

Cervical cancer, a malignancy originating in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus connecting to the vagina, is primarily triggered by persistent HPV (human papillomavirus) infections, a common sexually transmitted disease. While most HPV infections resolve naturally, the persistence of high-risk strains can lead to cervical cancer. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. The slow progression of this cancer can lead to easily missed signs and symptoms. Here are five early indicators of cervical cancer that may go unnoticed:

Uncommon Vaginal Bleeding

One of the earliest warning signs of cervical cancer is unusual vaginal bleeding. This can manifest as:

• Bleeding between regular menstrual cycles
• Bleeding after sexual activity
• Bleeding following menopause
• Heavier or prolonged menstrual periods

Irregular bleeding is common and often attributed to hormonal fluctuations or infections. However, any deviation from your normal bleeding pattern warrants medical evaluation, even if cancer is not suspected.

Changes in Vaginal Discharge

A minimal amount of vaginal discharge is typical, especially around ovulation. However, changes can signal a problem. While vaginal discharge varies in amount and texture during the menstrual cycle, cervical cancer can cause:

• Thick or watery discharge
• Discharge with a strong or unpleasant odor
• Bloody or blood-tinged discharge

This discharge may occur between periods or after menopause. Dismissing it as an infection or irritation is common, but medical evaluation is essential.

Pain During Sexual Intercourse

Pain or discomfort during sex, while often linked to infections or hormonal changes, can also be an early indicator of cervical cancer. This pain might feel like:

• Sharp or stabbing pain during penetration
• A deep ache or pressure in the pelvic region during or after sex

Many women avoid discussing this sensitive symptom, but persistent pain during intercourse is abnormal and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out serious underlying causes, including cervical cancer.

Lower Back or Pelvic Pain

Mild pain in the lower back or pelvis can stem from common issues like muscle strain or menstrual cramps. However, persistent or unexplained pain in these areas, especially when accompanied by abnormal bleeding or discharge, may indicate early cervical cancer.

This pain is often described as a dull ache or pressure between the hip bones or in the lower abdomen. Overlooking this symptom due to its commonality is frequent. If pelvic or lower back pain persists despite home remedies, seek medical evaluation.

Frequent or Painful Urination

Early cervical cancer can affect adjacent tissues, including the bladder and urinary tract, leading to symptoms such as:

• Frequent urge to urinate
• Pain or burning sensation during urination
• Difficulty fully emptying the bladder

These symptoms are often mistaken for urinary tract infections (UTIs), which are prevalent in women. However, persistent urinary symptoms despite UTI treatment warrant further investigation to exclude cervical cancer.

Vaccine and Early Detection: Keys to Prevention

Awareness and regular health checkups are crucial for early detection. Furthermore, the HPV vaccine offers protection against HPV types responsible for cervical, vaginal, vulvar, penile, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers, as well as genital warts. Women can receive the vaccine as early as 11 or 12 years of age, up to age 45 (consult your doctor).