Why Cervical Cancer Often Goes Undetected and How to Catch It Early

Cervical cancer is gaining awareness among women slowly. Previously, they weren’t aware of what it meant and how to protect themselves from this cancer. However, with medical advancements, cervical cancer has a vaccine that every girl between the ages of 9 to 12 must take. Also, if it is detected in the early stages, it is preventable. 

In this article, we will dive deeper into what is cervical cancer, its symptoms, and how you can catch it early. 

Understanding Cervical Cancer 

Cervical cancer arises when abnormal cells on the cervix grow uncontrollably. Most cases are linked to persistent infection with high-risk HPV types. It is preventable but one of the most common cancers in India which often goes unnoticed due to similar symptoms to other conditions women face. 

Causes of Cervical Cancer 

Cervical cancer is caused mainly due to HPV (human papillomavirus) as it is the primary driver of cervical cellular changes. Here are some other causes: 

• Early sexual activity and multiple partners increase the chances of HPV exposure. 
• Weakened immunity due to HIV or long-term immunosuppressive therapy. 
• Smoking or consuming tobacco weakens the immune response and damages the cervical cells. 

Cervical Cancer Symptoms 

The symptoms of early-stage and advanced-stage cancer are different. Here's how: 

Early-stage symptoms: 

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding – during or after intercourse, between periods, or postmenopause. 
• Unusual discharge – watery, foulsmelling, or tinged with blood. 
• Pelvic or lower back pain – persistent or recurring discomfort. 
• Pain during intercourse - Discomfort or pain during sexual activity.  

Advanced-stage symptoms: 

• You might experience bleeding from the rectum during a bowel movement. 
• You might see blood in your urine. 
• Dull Backache 
• Swelling of the Legs 
• Abdominal Pain 
• Fatigue 

What Are the Stages of Cervical Cancer? 

Cervical cancer staging (FIGO/TNM) guides treatment: 

Stage 0 (Carcinoma in situ): 

Pre-cancerous cells on cervical surface only. 

Stage I: 

Cancer confined to the cervix. 

• IA: Invasion <5 mm (microscopic) 
• IB: Visible or deeper invasion but still contained 

Stage II: 

Spread beyond the cervix, but not to the pelvic wall or lower vagina. 

• IIA: No parametrial spread 
• IIB: Spread into parametrial tissue 

Stage III: 

Reaches lower third of vagina or pelvic sidewalls; may impair kidney function via hydronephrosis. 

• IIIA: Lower vagina 
• IIIB: Pelvic sidewall or hydronephrosis 

Stage IV: 

Spread to nearby organs or distant metastasis. 

• IVA: Bladder/rectum involvement 
• IVB: Distant organs like liver or lungs 

Cervical Cancer v/s Menstrual Irregularity – What is the difference 

There are times when cervical cancer is often misinterpreted due to similar symptoms. Let’s see how you can differentiate between the two: 

Feature 

Cervical Cancer 

Menstrual Irregularity 

Cause 

Abnormal cell growth in the cervix is often due to high-risk HPV infection. 

Hormonal imbalances, stress, PCOS, thyroid issues, weight changes, etc. 

Bleeding Pattern 

Unusual bleeding post-intercourse, between periods, or after menopause. 

Irregular cycles like early, delayed, missed, or prolonged periods. 

Associated Discharge 

Watery, foul-smelling, or blood-tinged vaginal discharge. 

Generally, not associated with unusual discharge. 

Pain 

Pelvic or lower back pain, especially during intercourse or urination. 

Mild cramps during periods and the pain is not persistent or unrelated to the cycle. 

Cycle Consistency 

Symptoms are unrelated to menstrual timing 

Directly linked to ovulation or menstruation timing 

Duration of Symptoms 

Symptoms tend to persist or worsen gradually. 

Often fluctuates; may resolve with lifestyle changes or hormonal treatment. 

Other Red Flags 

Fatigue, unexplained weight loss, leg swelling in advanced stages. 

Acne, hair growth, mood swings, or breast tenderness in hormonal cases. 

Diagnosis 

Pap smear, HPV test, colposcopy, biopsy 

Hormone tests, pelvic ultrasound, menstrual tracking 

Treatment 

Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy 

Hormonal therapy, stress management, treatment of underlying cause 

How Is Cervical Cancer Diagnosed? 

Cervical cancer is diagnosed in the following ways:  

• Pap Smear (Pap Test) – to detect precancerous or cancerous cervical cells. 
• HPV DNA Test – identifies high-risk HPV types. 
• Colposcopy – detailed cervical exam using magnification. 
• Biopsy – tissue sampling confirms the diagnosis. 
• Endocervical Curettage – sampling internal cervical canal cells. 
• Imaging Tests (MRI, CT, PET) – to stage cancer and assess spread. 

What Are the Treatment Options for Cervical Cancer 

Cervical cancer treatment is similar to how other cancers are treated. However, there have been significant innovations to treat this cancer. Let’s learn more about it: 

• Surgical Procedures: 
• Conization: It removes a cone-shaped cervical area that is affected. 
• Hysterectomy: It is the complete or radical removal of the uterus and part of the vagina. 
• Trachelectomy: In this case, the cervix is removed to preserve the uterus for early-stage patients. 
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays target and kill cancer cells; often combined with chemotherapy. 
• Chemotherapy: Concurrent cisplatin with radiation improves outcomes in advanced cervical cancer. 
• Targeted Therapy & Immunotherapy: Bevacizumab and pembrolizumab are now approved for certain late-stage cancers. It improves the immune response. 

How You Can You Be Ahead of Cervical Cancer? 

• Start with a Pap and HPV test early on (21 years) and do it regularly every 3 to 5 years. 
• Take the HPV vaccine if you are between the age group of 9 to 26 with follow-ups up to 45 years. 
• If you experience any unexplained bleeding, discharge, or pain lasting for more than 3 weeks – consult a doctor. 

Consult with experienced gynecologists at Hinduja Hospital, Khar, Mumbai, and address your concerns about cervical cancer, HPV vaccine, and more with their expert guidance.  

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs) 

What are the 5 warning signs of cervical cancer? 

• Vaginal bleeding after intercourse 
• Menstrual bleeding is heavier and lasts longer than usual. 
• Watery, bloody vaginal discharge with a foul odor. 
• Pelvic pain. 

Is stage 1 cervical cancer curable? 

Yes, stage 1 cervical cancer is considered curable. With the right diagnosis and treatment such as surgery or radiation therapy, complete recovery is possible. 

At what age does cervical cancer occur? 

Cervical cancer is detected among women between the ages of 35 and 44. The average age for cervical cancer is 50. Many older women don't realize that they are still at risk of developing cervical cancer as they age. 

What causes 90% of cervical cancer? 

Persistent HPV infection of the cervix (the lower part of the uterus or womb, which opens into the vagina – also called the birth canal) if left untreated, causes 95% of cervical cancers.