The Signs That Saved My Life: My Experience with Cervical Cancer

Cervical Cancer Causes

Cervical cancer is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that can lead to cervical cancer. Other risk factors for cervical cancer include smoking, having multiple sexual partners, and having a weakened immune system.

It is also more common in women who have had many full-term pregnancies, and in women who have used birth control pills for a long time. Having a family history of cervical cancer or having HPV infections for a prolonged period also increases the risk of developing cervical cancer. Regular Pap tests can help detect cervical cancer early when it is most treatable.

Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages. As cancer progresses, the following signs may develop:

• Vaginal bleeding, which can occur after sexual intercourse, between periods, or after menopause
• Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse
• Vaginal discharge that is different from normal
• Unusual pain or discomfort in the pelvic area
• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Fatigue

It is important to note that other conditions, such as infection or benign growths can also cause these symptoms. A Pap test or biopsy is the only way to confirm a cervical cancer diagnosis. Regular screenings, as recommended by healthcare providers, are crucial for early detection and treatment.

Pelvic Pressure

Pelvic pressure is a feeling of discomfort or heaviness in the lower abdominal region. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, including pregnancy, constipation, pelvic inflammatory disease, and endometriosis. Pregnant women may experience pelvic pressure as the uterus grows and puts pressure on the pelvic floor muscles. Constipation can cause pelvic pressure as well, as the straining to have a bowel movement puts pressure on the pelvic area.

Pelvic inflammatory disease and endometriosis, both of which affect the reproductive organs, can also cause pelvic pressure. If you are experiencing pelvic pressure, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and to receive appropriate treatment.

Bleeding After Sex

Bleeding after sex, also known as postcoital bleeding, is the presence of blood from the vagina after sexual intercourse. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, including cervical or vaginal infections, vaginal dryness, cervical or endometrial cancer, and certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Cervical or vaginal infections, such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea, can cause bleeding after sex due to inflammation and irritation of the cervix or vagina. Vaginal dryness, which can occur due to decreased estrogen levels or certain medications, can also lead to bleeding after sex.

Cervical or endometrial cancer, although relatively rare, are another potential cause of postcoital bleeding. These cancers can cause abnormal cell growth on the cervix or uterus that may bleed when irritated during intercourse.

How Cervical Cancer Is Diagnosed

Cervical cancer is typically diagnosed through a combination of methods, including a pelvic examination, Pap test, and HPV test.

A pelvic examination is a routine exam that a healthcare provider performs to check the reproductive organs, including the cervix. During the exam, the provider will look for any abnormalities or growths on the cervix.

A Pap test, also known as a Pap smear, is a procedure in which a sample of cells is taken from the cervix and examined under a microscope for any abnormal cells. The Pap test can detect abnormal cells that may be precancerous or cancerous.

An HPV test is a test that looks for the presence of the human papillomavirus, which is a common cause of cervical cancer. The test can be done at the same time as a Pap test, and it can help to determine the risk of developing cervical cancer.

If cervical cancer is suspected, a biopsy may be done to remove a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope. Imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, may also be done to determine the extent of cancer and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.

It is important to note that cervical cancer can often be prevented through regular screenings and vaccinations against HPV.

How to Prevent Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer can be prevented through a combination of regular screenings, vaccinations, and lifestyle changes.

1. Regular screenings: Women should begin regular cervical cancer screenings at age 21, and continue to receive them as recommended by their healthcare provider. Screening tests, such as the Pap test and HPV test, can detect abnormal cells in the cervix before they turn into cancer.
2. Vaccinations: The HPV vaccine can protect against the types of HPV that most commonly cause cervical cancer. It is recommended for girls and boys ages 11-12 but can be given to people through age 26.
3. Lifestyle changes: Quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, maintain a healthy diet and weight, and practice safe sex can also reduce your risk of cervical cancer.

It's important to note that even with these preventive measures, cervical cancer can still develop. It's crucial to be aware of any symptoms, such as abnormal vaginal bleeding, and to follow up with a healthcare provider if any concerns arise.

Management and Treatment of cervical cancer

is a type of cancer that affects the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is usually caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection.

Management and treatment of cervical cancer typically involve a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The specific treatment plan will depend on the stage and aggressiveness of cancer, as well as the patient's overall health and personal preferences.

Surgery is often the first line of treatment for cervical cancer. This can include a hysterectomy, which involves removing the uterus, or a cone biopsy, which removes a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix.

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells and shrink tumours. This can be delivered externally or internally, with the latter known as brachytherapy.

Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be given alone or in combination with radiation therapy.

Preventative measures include HPV vaccination, regular Pap smear screening, and avoiding risk factors such as smoking and multiple sexual partners.

Patients need to work closely with their healthcare team to create a treatment plan that is tailored to their specific needs. With early detection and appropriate treatment, cervical cancer can often be successfully treated.