Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that originates on the cervix, which is the opening to the uterus located towards the top of the vagina. Worldwide, cervical cancer is the most common cancer in women, according to "The New York Times." In the United States, this cancer is not as common due to frequent screening. The initial stages of cervical cancer do not normally present any symptoms. Symptoms only develop once the cancer invades nearby structures and tissues.
Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
One of the first signs of cervical cancer is abnormal bleeding from the vagina, according to the American Cancer Society. Bleeding that occurs after sex, bleeding or spotting between periods, or heavier and longer periods can be symptoms of cancer of the cervix. Older patients who have gone through menopause and then experience bleeding from the vagina may have developed cervical cancer. Patients who consistently bleed after vaginal douching or a pelvic exam can be suffering from late stages of cervical cancer.
Loss of Weight
Weight loss is a symptom seen in the advanced stages of cervical cancer, according to "The New York Times" Health Guide series. The weight loss is usually accompanied by a loss of appetite. The weight loss can be caused by the exorbitant amount of energy the cancer needs to reproduce. Energy is drawn from the patient's fat and muscle in order to power the cancer growth and spread.
Vaginal Discharge
Patients with cervical cancer complain of a fluid discharge from the vagina. This discharge can be watery, pale, bloody, pink or brown, reports the American Cancer Society. The discharge can be heavy and possess a foul smell. The cancer destroying the normal tissues of the cervix, vagina, and uterus causes the discharge. Women with any type of abnormal vaginal discharge should undergo a Pap smear to screen for cervical cancer and other diseases.
Pelvic Pain
Cervical cancer has been noted to cause pain located at the patient's pelvis, according to the Mayo Clinic. The pain may also be experienced during sexual intercourse. The pain can be caused by the cancer causing damage and inflammation to the surrounding tissues, especially the vaginal walls.
Passing of Urine or Stool from the Vagina
Late-stage cancer of the cervix can erode the tissues that separate the vagina from the urethra or rectum, states "The New York Times" Health Guide. The urethra is the tube that conducts urine outside the body, and the rectum is part of the pathway stool uses to get outside of the body. Once the cancer breaks down the wall between these structures and the vagina, the patient may notice that urine and stool leaks from her vagina.
