Cervical Cancer: Diagnosis & Treatment

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Vineela Medapati , Gynecologists

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1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Cervical cancer, commonly known as cancer of the cervix, first starts on the surface of the cervix. Abnormal growth of cells in the cervix leads to cancer. The crucial risk factor for cervical cancer is human papillomavirus infection, which can be stopped by HPV vaccination. Because cervical cancer grows slowly, it can generally be detected and treated before it becomes a significant threat. Thanks to better screening methods like pap smear tests, which can detect cancer early.

Cervical cancer is more common in women between 35 and 44 of age. However, more than 15% of new cases include women over 65, especially those who haven't been getting regular checkups. It is necessary to detect precancerous cells and treat them before they become cancerous.

What are the Types of Cervical Cancer?

Both treatment and prognosis depend on the type of cervical cancer. Cervical cancer's main subtypes include:

Adenocarcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma

What are the Symptoms of Cervical Cancer?

Abnormal bleeding, such as after sex, between cycles, or after menopause
Vaginal discharge that has a distinct look or scent than normal
Pelvic discomfort
The need to urinate more often
Pain during urination

What are the Causes of Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer develops due to genetic changes (mutations) in healthy cervix-based cells. The abnormal DNA mutations cause cells to multiply uncontrollably and result in cancer. Cancer cells break from a tumor and infiltrate nearby tissues (metastasize) to other body parts. HPV plays a vital role in cervical cancer development, even if its precise cause is uncertain. When tested positive for HPV testing, the majority of women never develop cancer. Other factors such as genetics, the environment, and lifestyle choices also influence cervical cancer development.

When should you see a Doctor for Cervical Cancer?

You should seek medical attention if you experience symptoms that may indicate cervical cancer or have abnormal cervical screening results, as early diagnosis can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Timely evaluation by a Gynecologist can help confirm the diagnosis, recommend appropriate tests, determine the stage of the disease, and provide the most suitable treatment plan.

Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: Bleeding between periods, after sexual intercourse, after menopause, or unusually heavy menstrual bleeding should be evaluated promptly.
Persistent Pelvic Pain: Ongoing pelvic pain or discomfort, especially if it is unrelated to menstruation, requires medical attention.
Pain During Intercourse: Persistent pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse may be a sign of cervical abnormalities.
Unusual Vaginal Discharge: Persistent watery, foul-smelling, blood-tinged, or unusual vaginal discharge should not be ignored.
Abnormal Pap Smear or HPV Test: Women with abnormal cervical screening results should consult a Gynecologist for further evaluation and follow-up.
Unexplained Weight Loss or Fatigue: Sudden weight loss, persistent fatigue, or loss of appetite may require further investigation.
Difficulty Urinating or Bowel Changes: Pain while urinating, blood in the urine, constipation, or changes in bowel habits associated with pelvic symptoms should be assessed promptly.
Persistent High-Risk HPV Infection: Women with persistent high-risk HPV infection, a weakened immune system, smoking history, or previous cervical dysplasia should have regular follow-up with a Gynecologist for early detection and timely management.

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How is Cervical Cancer Diagnosed?

The greatest development in cervical cancer detection is the expanded use of high-risk HPV testing and Pap smear testing. The examination of a woman's pelvis usually involves a Pap smear. The doctor will perform a biopsy to remove a small sample of cervical tissue if any abnormal changes are detected.

Several types of cervical biopsies may be used to diagnose cervical cancer. Treatment for precancerous lesions may include procedures that remove abnormal tissue from affected areas. Depending on the biopsy method, local or general anaesthesia may be required. Cervical biopsies include:

Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP): A procedure that uses a thin electric wire loop to remove a tissue sample for microscopic examination.
Colposcopy: During this procedure, the cervix is examined with a colposcope, a magnifying instrument. If abnormal tissue is identified, a biopsy is usually performed.
Endocervical Curettage: A thin curette is used to scrape the lining of the endocervical canal. This procedure is commonly performed along with a colposcopy-guided biopsy.
Cone Biopsy: A larger cone-shaped section of cervical tissue is removed using either the cold knife cone biopsy method or the loop electrosurgical excision procedure. It may also be used to treat precancerous lesions and early-stage cervical cancers.
HPV DNA Test: This test detects high-risk HPV infection. Cells are collected similarly to a Pap smear and are often recommended for women over 30 years of age or those with mildly abnormal Pap smear results.

What are the Treatment Options for Cervical Cancer?

The treatment for cervical cancer includes:

Surgery: Surgery aims to remove as much of the cancer as possible. In some cases, only the affected area of the cervix is removed, while advanced cases may require removal of the cervix, uterus, and nearby pelvic organs.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other radiation beams to destroy cancer cells and prevent them from growing.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses anticancer drugs to destroy cancer cells throughout the body. Treatment is usually given in cycles to allow the body time to recover between sessions.

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What are the Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer?

Several factors can increase the risk of developing cervical cancer, including:

HPV Infection: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted virus, and certain high-risk types are strongly linked to cervical cancer.
Multiple Sexual Partners: Having multiple sexual partners increases the likelihood of HPV infection, which raises the risk of cervical cancer.
Smoking: Smoking damages cervical cells and increases the risk of cervical and several other cancers.
Weak Immune System: Individuals with HIV or AIDS or those taking immunosuppressive medications after organ transplantation have a higher risk of cervical cancer.
Long-Term Use of Birth Control Pills: Prolonged use of certain oral contraceptives may slightly increase the risk of cervical cancer.
Other Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis may increase the likelihood of developing cervical cancer.
Family History of Cervical Cancer: Women with a mother or sister who has had cervical cancer are at a higher risk of developing the disease.

How can Cervical Cancer be Prevented?

The following measures can help reduce the risk of cervical cancer:

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine: Receiving the HPV vaccine significantly reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer caused by high-risk HPV types.
Practice Safe Sex: Using condoms and practicing safe sex can reduce the risk of HPV and other sexually transmitted infections.
Regular Cervical Screening: Routine Pap smear and HPV screening help detect precancerous changes early before they progress to cervical cancer.
Limit the Number of Sexual Partners: Reducing the number of sexual partners lowers the risk of HPV infection.
Quit Smoking: Avoiding tobacco reduces the risk of cervical cancer and improves overall health.

What are the Dos and Don'ts for Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. Following healthy lifestyle practices and regular screening can help reduce the risk and support treatment outcomes.

Do's	Don'ts
Get regular Pap smear tests	Eat processed and junk foods
Receive the HPV vaccine at the recommended age	Ignore persistent or unusual symptoms
Practice safe sex	Eat raw or undercooked meat products
Eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in zinc and nutrients	Consume excessive sugary foods and beverages
Exercise regularly	Smoke cigarettes

Following these dos and don'ts can help reduce the risk of cervical cancer, support recovery, improve overall health, and encourage timely medical follow-up.

Citations

https://www.cancer.gov/types/cervical

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is cervical cancer, and where does it occur in the body?

Cervical cancer develops in the cervix, which is located at the top of the vagina and is the bottom section of the uterus (womb).

2. What are the common symptoms of cervical cancer?

Common symptoms include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and unusual vaginal discharge. However, early-stage cervical cancer may not present any symptoms.

3. What causes cervical cancer?

Persistent infection with high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary cause of cervical cancer. Other risk factors include smoking, a compromised immune system, and a family history of cervical cancer.

4. Is cervical cancer preventable, and how can it be prevented?

Cervical cancer is mainly prevented with routine screening procedures such as Pap screens and HPV vaccinations. These measures can detect and prevent the development of cervical cancer.

5. What are the risk factors for cervical cancer?

Risk factors include HPV infection, multiple sexual partners, smoking, a weakened immune system, early sexual activity, and a family history of cervical cancer.

6. How is cervical cancer diagnosed?

Cervical cancer is diagnosed through a combination of methods, including Pap smears, HPV testing, colposcopy, and biopsy. These tests help determine the presence and stage of cancer.

7. What are the different stages of cervical cancer, and how is each step treated?

Cervical cancer is staged from 0 to IV, with treatments ranging from surgery and radiation therapy for early stages to a combination of therapies for advanced settings. Treatment plans are personalized for each patient.

8. Can cervical cancer be treated successfully if detected early?

Yes, cervical cancer is highly treatable when detected at an early stage. Regular screenings and early intervention can lead to a successful outcome.

9. What are the treatment options for advanced cervical cancer?

Advanced cervical cancer may require a combination of treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, depending on the stage and extent of the disease.

10. Why do you get cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is primarily caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can lead to abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix over time, potentially progressing to cancer. Regular screening and vaccination against HPV can help prevent cervical cancer.