Cervical Dysplasia & Its Symptoms

Cervical dysplasia is a female medical condition in which abnormal precancerous or cancerous cells grow along the surface of the cervix, a part of the reproductive tract. In the absence of appropriate treatment, approximate 30 to 50 percent of women with cervical dysplasia go on to develop invasive cervical cancer, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Cervical dysplasia is typically identified during a woman's yearly Pap smear, as this condition may not cause noticeable symptoms. Women should talk with a doctor about cervical dysplasia and its symptoms for further guidance and information.

Genital Warts

Cervical dysplasia is caused by a sexually transmitted infection called the human papillomavirus or HPV. Women who develop cervical dysplasia can also experience symptoms of HPV, such as genital warts. Genital warts are small, fleshy lesions that can appear externally across the vagina or internally along the cervix. Women who notice the appearance of genital warts should seek care from a medical professional immediately. Without proper protection, women can pass HPV to other uninfected intimate partners.

Vaginal Bleeding or Discharge

Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge can occur as symptoms of cervical dysplasia in affected women. Vagina bleeding may be most apparent during or following sexual intercourse, the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center at Penn State University warns. Women who develop abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge should be evaluated by a doctor. These symptoms of cervical dysplasia can also be signs of alternate medical problems, such as a vaginal or sexually transmitted infection.

Lower Back Pain

Certain women experience lower back pain as a symptom of cervical dysplasia, the UMMC reports. Sensations of pain in the lower back can be mild to moderate and may occur intermittently. Lower back pain can also be a symptom of other medical problems, such as a urinary tract or kidney infection, and affected women should be evaluated by a doctor to ensure receipt of appropriate care.

References

Article reviewed by David Fisher Last updated on: Sep 9, 2010

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