Cervical Cancer Symptoms
Cervical Cancer Symptoms
Cervical cancer begins when cells in the cervix grow out of control, forming a tumor or abnormal growth. These changes often cause the first signs and symptoms of cervical cancer. Signs are things that can be measured or seen by a doctor, like a tumor visible during an exam. Symptoms are things you feel in your body, like unusual bleeding or pelvic pain.
One of the most important things to know about cervical cancer is that early cervical cancer and precancerous cell changes usually cause no symptoms at all. This is why regular cervical cancer screening, including Pap tests and HPV tests, is so important. Screening can find problems before symptoms develop, when the cancer is most treatable.
When symptoms do appear, they may be easy to mistake for less serious conditions such as an infection, an irregular menstrual period, or irritation. If you notice any of the symptoms below, talk to your doctor. Many symptoms listed here have causes other than cancer, but any symptom that concerns you or does not go away should be evaluated.
THE BASICS: The most common symptoms of cervical cancer are unusual vaginal bleeding, unusual vaginal discharge, and pelvic pain. Unusual vaginal bleeding includes bleeding after sex, bleeding between periods, bleeding after menopause, or periods that are heavier or longer than usual. Because early cervical cancer and precancerous changes usually cause no symptoms, regular screening with Pap tests and HPV tests is the most important way to find cervical cancer early.
What are the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer?
Unusual vaginal bleeding
Bleeding after sexual intercourse. This is one of the most common early symptoms of cervical cancer.
Bleeding between menstrual periods
Bleeding after menopause
Menstrual periods that are heavier than usual or last longer than usual
Bleeding after a pelvic exam
Unusual vaginal discharge
A watery, pink, brown, or bloody discharge that has an unusual odor
Discharge that is heavier than usual
Pelvic pain
Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis that is not related to the menstrual cycle
Pain during sexual intercourse
Symptoms that may mean the cancer has spread
Difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, or a frequent urge to urinate that is not caused by an infection
Difficulty having a bowel movement or blood in the stool
Swelling of one or both legs
Pain in the back, legs, or pelvis
Unexplained fatigue, weight loss, or loss of appetite
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, or notice changes to your health that concern you, talk to your doctor right away. Finding cervical cancer at an early stage gives you the best chance of successful treatment. Do not wait to see if symptoms go away on their own.