Cancer of the cervix is one of the most devastating cancers that affect women. Because of the proximity of the cervix to the reproductive organs, this cancer has become the most severe and devastating of all cancers. It is usually contracted by women over the age of 40, but it can occur in younger women. As with any cancer, the danger is not only to the infected organ or part of the body, but in the potential to spread, or metastasize. Each year in the United States, approximately 10,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 3,700 die.
Main Cause
One of the main causes of cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus (HPV). Certain types of HPV can cause infections and changes in the cells in the cervix, leading to cancer.
Other types of HPV can be passed from one person to another by sexual contact and are common. Many adults who have been sexually active have at one time in their lives been infected with HPV, which can cause genital warts.
Other Causes
A healthy immune system is the best defense against any infectious entity. While people with healthy immune systems can still get cancer, the women who have weakened immune systems contract the disease more often. Women who have had sexual relations with many men, or who have had relations with one man who has had many partners, will run a higher risk of contracting cervical cancer. Also, women who smoke or who have used birth control pills for a long period of time are at risk.
Checking for Cervical Cancer
The best way to monitor for cancerous growths in the cervix is the Pap smear. The Pap smear tests cells from inside and around the cervix for abnormalities that may indicate serious concerns. Unfortunately, many women do not get a regular Pap smear and any indication of HPV or the start of cancer may go undetected for many months, giving the cancer time to spread.
Symptoms
Most symptoms of cervical cancer will appear in the vagina, since the cervix is connected to it. Symptoms that would indicate the possibility of cervical cancer are:
• Any unusual pain in this area during sexual intercourse.
• Unusual bleeding or unusual changes in the menstrual cycle.
• Vaginal bleeding when anything makes contacts with the cervix during sexual activity or when inserting a diaphragm.
• Any discharge from the vagina that is tainted with blood.
Conclusions
Every woman who has reached sexual maturity, especially women who are over the age of 40, should be aware of these symptoms and be proactive in maintaining a careful watch for any indication of cervical cancer of HPV. Having a regular Pap smear--at least once a year--is the best way for a doctor or gynecologist to find early indications of HPV infection.
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