Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in a womans cervix, and it often has no symptoms in its early stages. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding, which can occur after sex, in between periods, or after menopause.
- Pain and discomfort during sex.
- An unpleasant smelling vaginal discharge.
- Menstrual bleeding that is longer or heavier than usual.
- Pelvic pain.
- Back pain.
- Leg pain or swelling.
- Fatigue.
- Loss of appetite.
- Difficulty or painful bowel movements or bleeding from the rectum when having a bowel movement.
- Difficult or painful urination or blood in the urine.
Its important to note that these symptoms may be caused by many conditions other than cervical cancer, but if you experience any of these symptoms, you should talk to your doctor about them, even if they appear to be symptoms of other, less serious conditions. If you have abnormal changes on the cervix after a Pap smear, your doctor may order a colposcopy to investigate further. Regular screening for cervical cancer is recommended for women starting at age 21.
