In the early stages of cervical cancer, particularly stage 1, it is common for women to not experience any noticeable symptoms. This is why regular cervical cancer screenings, such as Pap tests and HPV tests, are crucial for early detection.
However, as the cancer progresses, some women may start to experience symptoms. The specific symptoms can vary from person to person, but some possible signs and symptoms of stage 1 cervical cancer can include:
Abnormal vaginal bleeding
This can include bleeding between periods, after sexual intercourse, or after menopause. It may appear as spotting, heavier periods, or bleeding outside of the regular menstrual cycle.
Unusual vaginal discharge
Cervical cancer can cause an increase in vaginal discharge that is watery, bloody, or has a foul odor.
Pelvic pain
Persistent or unexplained pelvic pain, discomfort, or a dull ache in the pelvic region can be a symptom of cervical cancer.
Pain during sexual intercourse
Cervical cancer may cause pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse, known as dyspareunia.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions unrelated to cervical cancer. If you experience any of these symptoms or have concerns, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate testing. Regular cervical cancer screenings are key to detecting cervical cancer at an early stage when treatment outcomes are generally better.
What are the stages of Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer staging is a way to describe the extent and spread of the cancer. The staging system commonly used for cervical cancer is the FIGO (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) staging system, which includes the following stages.
- Stage 0 (carcinoma in situ): Also known as pre-invasive cervical cancer, this stage refers to abnormal cells found only on the surface of the cervix and has not invaded deeper tissues.
- Stage I: Cancer is confined to the cervix.
- Stage IA: The cancer is microscopic and can only be seen under a microscope.
- Stage IA1: Invasion is less than or equal to 3 mm in depth and less than or equal to 7 mm in width.
- Stage IA2: Invasion is more than 3 mm but not more than 5 mm in depth and less than or equal to 7 mm in width.
- Stage IB: The cancer is visible to the naked eye or larger.
- Stage IB1: Invasion is more than 5 mm in depth and less than or equal to 2 cm in width.
- Stage IB2: Invasion is more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm in width.
- Stage IA: The cancer is microscopic and can only be seen under a microscope.
- Stage II: Cancer has spread beyond the cervix but not to the pelvic sidewall or lower third of the vagina.
- Stage IIA: No involvement of the parametrium (tissue adjacent to the cervix).
- Stage IIB: Involvement of the parametrium.
- Stage III: Cancer has extended to the lower third of the vagina or to the pelvic sidewall, and may involve the ureters (tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder).
- Stage IIIA: Tumor extends to the lower third of the vagina but not to the pelvic sidewall.
- Stage IIIB: Tumor involves the pelvic sidewall or causes kidney problems (hydronephrosis) or both.
- Stage IVA: Cancer has spread beyond the cervix and uterus but has not reached distant organs.
- Stage IVA1: Spread to the bladder or rectum.
- Stage IVA2: Spread to other pelvic organs.
- Stage IVB: Cancer has spread to distant organs, such as the lungs, liver, bones, or other distant sites.
The staging of cervical cancer helps guide treatment decisions and provides an understanding of the prognosis. It is determined through a combination of clinical examination, imaging tests, and sometimes surgical exploration. The specific treatment approach may vary based on the stage of the cancer, overall health of the individual, and other factors.
Is Cervical Cancer Treatable?
Yes, cervical cancer is treatable, especially when detected at an early stage. The treatment options for cervical cancer depend on various factors, including the stage of the cancer, the size and location of the tumor, the overall health of the patient, and their desire to preserve fertility.
The primary treatment options for cervical cancer include:
Surgery
Surgical options may include removing the cancerous tissue through procedures like a cone biopsy, simple hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), radical hysterectomy (removal of the uterus, cervix, upper vagina, and surrounding tissues), or pelvic exenteration (removal of the uterus, cervix, vagina, and nearby lymph nodes and organs in advanced cases).
Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation to kill cancer cells. It can be used externally (external beam radiation) or internally (brachytherapy) to target the tumor and surrounding areas.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. It is often used in combination with radiation therapy (chemoradiation) to enhance its effectiveness. Chemotherapy can also be used as the primary treatment in advanced or recurrent cases of cervical cancer.
Targeted therapy
Targeted therapy drugs specifically target cancer cells by interfering with specific molecules or pathways involved in their growth. These treatments may be used in combination with chemotherapy in certain cases.
The choice of treatment or combination of treatments depends on individual factors and is determined by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals specializing in cancer care.
It’s important to note that the prognosis for cervical cancer varies depending on the stage at diagnosis, the response to treatment, and other individual factors. Early detection through regular screening, such as Pap tests and HPV tests, can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment and cure.
