Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women – and is also known to be the fourth most common cause of death from cancer in the fairer sex. Although the most common cause is linked to Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, around 10% of cervical cancer cases are attributed to other reasons.
The prognosis for cervical cancer depends on the stage the cancer was detected, with patients experiencing 100% survival rate for microscopic forms of cervical cancer and 92% in the earliest stages of the invasive form.
It is, therefore, important to detect cervical cancer as early as possible. Women are advised to undergo Pap smear every year. It is also important to watch out for these possible warning signs in the body.
![By Dayo12 (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons](https://rachfeed.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/belly.jpg)
By Dayo12 (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
5. Loss of bladder control or discomfort during urination
If you are experiencing incontinence or feel pain/discomfort during urination, it is time to visit your doctor. It is also good to watch for signs of blood in the urine. Women suffering from cervical cancer often report loss of bladder control; this is actually a sign that the cancer has already spread to other areas and has reached neighboring organs like the bladder.
4. Longer, heavier menstrual periods
Unless you have always had long and heavy menstruations, a sudden change could mean that something is wrong with your reproductive system; however, if you had changed your contraceptive methods (such as IUD implantation), then it is possible that the heavier periods are due to this. Monitor your periods but do not hesitate to visit your OB-GYNE if you feel worried.
3. Pelvic pain
A lot of women experience pelvic pain nearing their period but if you are having pains even during the middle of the month, then it would be a good idea to have yourself checked. The same goes for pain that lasts for the entire month or for several days even away from period days.
2. Pain during intercourse
There are many possible reasons why women could experience pain during intercourse but if this happens most of the time, it is best to speak with your OB-GYNE and undergo a thorough medical check-up to determine why this is happening.
1. Abnormal vaginal bleeding and unusual discharges
Foul-smelling discharges and abnormal vaginal bleeding can also be caused by other factors, including yeast infection and pelvic inflammatory disease but these could also indicate cervical cancer.
Contact your doctor immediately if you are experiencing all these signs! Although there are lots of other possible reasons why these symptoms might manifest, it is always best to be safe than sorry.