Cervical cancer is one of the commonest cancers occurring in women. The incidence of this dreaded disease has come down considerably in recent times because of routine screening of women and better awareness about the disease.
Early diagnosis is the key to successful treatment of any cancer and cervical cancer is no exception. The problem however is that a woman may not feel any symptoms unless she knows what to look for.
Let Us Examine 10 Of The Earliest Symptoms Of Cervical Cancer For Which You Should Immediately Consult Your Gynaecologist:
Excessive Menstrual Bleeding
This can occur sometimes in cervical cancer. There can be other diseases which can also cause this symptom but cervical cancer should be first excluded through proper investigation.
Intermenstrual Bleeding
The amount of bleeding may not be much. But even spotting occurring in between two menstrual periods can be one of the earliest indicators of cervical cancer.
Irregular Menstrual Periods
Any change in the regular pattern of the menstrual cycle must be immediately reported as it may be the first sign of cervical cancer.
Vaginal Discharge Tinged With Blood
This again raises suspicion of cervical cancer and it is important to arrive at a proper diagnosis without delay.
Foul Smelling Vaginal Discharge
This can be confused with vaginal infections. Carvical cancer, however, must be excluded when such a discharge is noticed.
Bleeding After Sex
This can occur in case of cervical cancer and may be one of the earliest symptoms noticed.
Painful Intercourse
This can be caused by cervical cancer. This should be kept in mind if it happens.
Vaginal Bleeding After Menopause
In case of any post-menopausal bleeding, one must always exclude cervical cancer first before thinking of any other possible causes.
Excessive Weight Loss
Any recent weight loss within a short span of time and excessive tiredness can sometimes be the first symptoms of cervical cancer.
Low Back Pain And Pain In The Lower Abdomen
Although there can be several reasons for these symptoms, they should not be ignored while diagnosing cervical cancer. This is more important when associated with any of the other symptoms mentioned above.
It is also important to check whether there are any risk factors present for cervical cancer like early marriage, number of childbirths, and having HPV infection, among others. Regular routine screening may then be required for prevention and early detection of the disease.
