Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

Cervical precancers and early cancers usually show no symptoms or signs.

A woman usually develops symptoms when the cancer invades nearby tissue. When this happens, the most common symptom is abnormal vaginal bleeding.

Also, an unusual discharge from the vagina (separate from your normal monthly menstrual period) can be a sign of cervical cancer. Such discharges may include the following:

• Blood spots or light bleeding occurring between your periods.
• Menstrual bleeding that lasts longer and is heavier than usual.
• Bleeding after menopause.
• Increased vaginal discharge.
• Bleeding after intercourse, douching or a pelvic exam.

Pain during intercourse may also indicate cervical cancer.

However, all of these symptoms can be caused by conditions other than cervical cancer. For example, pain or bleeding may be caused by an infection. If you have any of these signs or other suspicious symptoms, you should see your doctor right away.

If you ignore these symptoms, you may allow the cancer to progress to a more advanced stage and lower your chance for effective treatment.

But don’t wait for symptoms to appear. There are two examinations that can help you discover cancer early: a pap test and pelvic examination. If you do have cervical cancer and catch it early, you have a much better chance of having it treated successfully.

Next: Pap Test and Pelvic Exam