Cervical cancer affects the opening to the uterus. This reproductive cancer affects nearly 10,000 women each year and more than 3,000 of those women die from the disease annually. This makes recognizing cervical cancer symptoms as early as possible important for the early detection and treatment of the disease. This increases the chance that a woman will survive cervical cancer.
Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
The vaginal bleeding that is a symptom of cervical cancer is different from regular menstrual bleeding. It can occur after intercourse due to friction against cancerous tissues. It can also occur between menstrual periods or after menopause when monthly bleeding no longer occurs. Report any irregular vaginal bleeding to a medical professional. The evaluation for abnormal vaginal bleeding may involve a pelvic exam, pap smear and other diagnostic or laboratory testing.
Bloody Discharge
Vaginal discharge can often accompany minor infections. The discharge that is a sign of advanced cervical cancer is watery and bloody. There may be a heavy flow to the discharge, which can also have a very foul odor. During a workup for abnormal vaginal discharge, a physician will take a sample of the discharge and have it analyzed in a laboratory. If the discharge is caused by an infection, the physician can recommend antibiotics or other treatments. If testing indicates that cervical cancer may be present, a biopsy may be done.
Dyspareunia
Dyspareunia is pain that occurs during sexual intercourse. While painful intercourse can be caused by a number of physical and psychological conditions, it can also be caused by the presence of cervical cancer. The friction of intercourse can irritate the tissues and cause pain and discomfort. Pelvic examination and discussion of a patient's medical and sexual history can often help determine the cause of dyspareunia.
Pain
Several types of pain may occur if cervical cancer is present. The most common is pelvic pain, since the cervix is part of the uterus. However, pain caused by cervical cancer may also affect the back and leg. Someone with cervical cancer may have one swollen leg and one normal-sized leg or two swollen legs. This swelling is caused by swollen glands that cause a blockage of lymph fluid.
Weight and Appetite Changes
Cervical cancer can lead to a decreased appetite and unintended weight loss. Unintended weight loss may occur as a result of a person's decreased appetite. Any unintended weight loss should be reported to a physician, so a cause can be determined.
