22 January 2024 , 07:00
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More than 850 people in the UK die of cervical cancer every year.
The disease mainly affects women under 45 but often 'operates in stealth mode' - lacking early indicators. Many cervical cancer symptoms also overlap with conditions such as fibroids or endometriosis, meaning many women simply put up with them and avoid seeking help.
It's mainly caused by persistent Human Papillomavirus HPV infections, a common group of viruses that affects around eight in 10 people. Whilst many HPV infections clear on their own, certain types can lead to cervical cancer - which accounts for one per cent of all cancer deaths in females in the UK.
As today marks the start of Cervical Cancer Awareness Week, INTIMINA's gynaecology expert Dr Susanna Unsworth shares four little-known cervical cancer symptoms you should never ignore. These are:
- Change in your normal vaginal bleeding. For example, if you've started bleeding in between regular periods, after menopause, or after sex.
- Change in your normal vaginal discharge. See a doctor if you notice your discharge has become thicker, changed in colour or smell, or appears to be blood-stained. Again, these symptoms overlap with other conditions so may not be a sign of cancer, but you should still be checked out.
- Painful sex. Many people feel to embarrassed to talk about this symptom, but if you're finding sexual intercourse painful and can't solve the issue with practical steps such as using lubrication, it is worth contacting your GP.
- Back pain. Whilst back pain is a rather vague and common issue, if you've noticed pain in the lower back or pelvis that hasn't gone after two or three weeks - you should get checked out. Especially if there has been no clear reason why the ache began (aka from a sports injury/ active lifestyle).
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Cervical screening is the best way to identify abnormal changes in the cervix. This includes discovering the presence of high-risk HPV. The NHS cervical screening programme in England is available for anyone with a cervix from the ages of 25-64.
"Besides that, women should always attend smear tests– a routine screening test that can detect abnormal cells on the cervix before they turn into cancer," Dr Unsworth added. "It's a quick, painless procedure that could save your life. Combined with cervical screening, they act as early warning systems, allowing doctors to take preventive action."
You can find out more about Cervical screening here.