The cervix is a hormonally regulated organ that helps make up the lower part of the uterus and provides an opening that connects the uterus to the vagina. Cervical cancer occurs when the cells within the cervix begin to divide uncontrollably, invading and harming neighboring tissue. The American Cancer Society states that over 11,000 cases of invasive cervical cancer were diagnosed in the United States in 2009, and that over 4000 women in the United States will die from cervical cancer each year. There are a number of clinical symptoms of invasive cervical cancer, but many symptoms only develop after the tumor is advanced. Regular pap smears and physical examinations will detect cervical cancer early and can prevent the development of a potentially fatal tumor.
Abnormal Bleeding
Cervical cancer can cause abnormal bleeding from the vagina. Bleeding commonly occurs in invasive cervical cancer as the cancer cells spread throughout healthy tissue, which leads to normal cell death and bleeding. This may present as spotting and bleeding throughout the menstrual cycle or as bleeding in women who have gone through menopause. Additionally, women who have cervical cancer may experience bleeding during menstruation that is much heavier than normal. Arizona State University reports that women may also experience bleeding during or after intercourse.
Pain
Cervical cancer can cause abdominal pain. This usually occurs after the cancer has spread beyond the cervix, and pain only occurs in advanced cases of the disease. Pain from cervical cancer can occur in the lower abdomen, legs and lower back. Patients with advanced cervical cancer may also experience pain or discomfort upon urination if the tumor is putting pressure on the bladder. According to the American University of Sharjah, advanced cervical cancer can also spread to the bowel and rectum, causing painful bowel movements.
Abnormal Discharge
Women with invasive cervical cancer may experience abnormal discharge from the vagina. According to Penn State University, cervical cancer may cause blood-stained discharge or cloudy discharge containing mucus or an increase in the overall amount of discharge. Abnormal discharge alone is not sufficient to diagnose cervical cancer, but if you are experience irregular discharge, you should seek medical attention.
