Women's Health On IVillage
Cervical Cancer: Signs, Symptoms & Diagnosis
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Cervical Cancer:Prevention [article]
Cervical Cancer:Overview [article]
Cervical Cancer:Fast Facts [article]
Cervical Cancer:Dealing Day-to-Day [article]
Cervical Cancer:Key Q&A [article]
When cervical cancer is diagnosed in its earliest stages, it has a 92 percent survival rate. However, in its early stages, cervical cancer may have few or no symptoms. For this reason, it is crucial for women to receive regular pelvic examinations and Pap smears to detect cervical cancer before it becomes invasive.
Prior to the development of cervical cancer, the cells in the cervix may undergo abnormal or precancerous changes. These changes may cause only mild symptoms, the most common being abnormal vaginal bleeding. This is bleeding that is not typical of your normal menstrual cycle.
There may be spotting or light bleeding that occurs between normal menstrual periods. In some women with early cervical cancer, menstrual bleeding may be heavier or last longer than usual. Any unexplained changes in your menstrual cycle can indicate possible precancerous or cancerous cervical cells.
Abnormal bleeding also may occur when something comes in contact with the cervix, such as during sexual intercourse. If you notice bleeding when you insert a diaphragm or contraceptive sponge, it may be an indication of cervical cancer.
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Provided By: HealthCentersOnline . Email this page . Print
Discharge containing mucus tinged with blood may also be associated with cervical cancer. In menopausal women, increased vaginal discharge or bleeding may be a symptom as well.
Pelvic pain is another common symptom. The pain may be particularly noticeable during sexual intercourse.
Other symptoms tend to occur in more advanced stages of cervical cancer. These include:
Ongoing pelvic, leg or back pain
Anemia (low number of red blood cells) due to abnormal bleeding
Urinary problems due to blockage of the ureter or kidneys
In advanced cervical cancer, some women may notice a leakage of urine or fecal matter into the vagina. This may occur because a fistula, or opening, has developed between the vagina and the bladder or rectum. As the cancer progresses, women may experience fatigue, a reduced appetite and unexplained weight loss.
Note that these symptoms are not unique to cervical cancer. They may occur with other, less serious female medical conditions.
Diagnosing cervical cancer
A visit to your gynecologist is the first step if you are experiencing symptoms associated with cervical cancer. Your gynecologist will review your symptoms and any concerns you may have about your gynecological health and complete a thorough pelvic examination.
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I have lost count how many time I tried to include the rest of this article. As Nova Library computers are shutting down, I think that might have something to do with it. Please go to the article and learn more of how to take care of yourself the best you can. Be aware and be well.
posted by LadyIrene @ 6/28/2006 10:29:00 PM
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