Cervical carcinoma is a cancerous tumor that develops within the cervix, a passageway that is a part of the female reproductive system. In 2009, over 11,000 women were diagnosed with cervical carcinoma, according to the National Cancer Institute. Patients with cervical carcinoma may be asymptomatic or may not develop symptoms until the advanced stages of the disease.
No Symptoms
Initially, the majority of women with cervical carcinoma are asymptomatic, meaning that they do not experience any noticeable symptoms. Certain factors, such as the presence of a sexually transmitted disease or a high number of sexual partners, can increase a woman's risk of developing cervical carcinoma. It is important for women to have a Pap test at least once each year to be screened for the presence of abnormal or cancerous cells within the cervix. Cervical cancer that is detected early on is easily treated, limiting the chance of potentially life-threatening medical complications.
Vaginal Bleeding
The first cervical cancer symptom a woman may develop is irregular vaginal bleeding. Cancerous cells along the cervix can inflame and irritate this region of a woman's reproductive tract. As a result, affected women can develop vaginal bleeding in between menstrual periods or after sexual intercourse. Postmenopausal women with cervical cancer can also experience unusual vaginal bleeding, warn doctors at the Mayo Clinic. As the cervical cancer continues to advance, these symptoms may worsen.
Vaginal Discharge
Women with cervical cancer can develop abnormal vaginal discharge as a symptom of the disease. This watery discharge may be heavier than usual and typically emits a strong, foul odor. Certain women may also notice a small amount of blood within the vaginal discharge. These symptoms of cervical carcinoma should be reported to a doctor or gynecologist as soon as possible.
Pelvic Pain
Cervical inflammation and irritation caused by cervical carcinoma can lead to sensations of pain within the pelvis. Women may experience constant, achy pain within the lower abdomen, which may radiate to the back. Sexual intercourse may exacerbate these symptoms and can be uncomfortable to certain women. Women who experience frequent or recurrent pelvic pain should contact a doctor, as this symptom can be indicative of a variety of medical conditions.
