Symptoms and Screening of Cervical Cancer

Dr. Deepika Aggarwal, Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynaecology at the CK Birla Hospital highlights some important symptoms of cervical cancer one should keep an eye on.

Symptoms of Cervical Cancer include: –

• Blood spots or light bleeding between or following periods
• Menstrual bleeding that is longer and heavier than usual
• Bleeding after intercourse, douching, or a pelvic examination
• Increased vaginal discharge
• Vaginal discharge of a different colour or smell
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Bleeding after menopause

Usually these symptoms don’t mean you have cervical cancer but you must seek the opinion of a gynaecologist and if needed, go for a screening as if you are found to have a cancer, getting it diagnosed and treated early can mean you are more likely to survive.

What do you mean by screening?

Cervical screening (which is also called a smear test) involves taking a small sample of cells from the surface of cervix. This is then sent to the laboratory to see if there are any abnormal cells which can turn into cancer if left untreated.

Cervical cancer screening is done with Pap testing (LBC- liquid base cytology) and/ or HPV testing.

Connect with one of our top gynecologists today to speak about scheduling a screening, receiving the HPV vaccination, or to discuss your symptoms. Book an appointment at the CK Birla Hospital now.