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Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers in women, and in fact is the second most common cause of cancer in women globally. Cervical cancer affects the cervix, which is the region that connects the vagina to the uterus (womb). The cervix is often known as the 'neck of the womb'. Cervical cancer most often affects young women, with 35-55 year olds being most affected.

The cervix produces lubrication for the vagina and mucus to aid the movement of sperm. During pregnancy it helps to hold the baby within the uterus.

Cervical cancer is almost always caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which is a virus spread through skin to skin contact, especially during sexual intercourse. Smoking can also cause chemical changes that lead to cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer has two main stages: early and late. There are two main types: squamous cell (the most common) which starts in the cervix cells at the top of the vagina, and adenocarcinoma, an uncommon form that starts in the cervical canal.

Early cervical cancer has no symptoms. It takes between five and ten years for early (pre-invasive) cervical cancer to become late (invasive) stage cancer. It can be detected by a pap smear test. When detected early, cervical cancer is curable, and this is the reason for the recommendations that every woman have a pap smear test at least every two years following their first sexual intercourse.

Late stage cervical cancer is much more serious than the early stage disease. Women who have had several pregnancies or several sexual partners are more at risk. Symptoms of late stage cancer include:

Irregular bleeding between periods.
Prolonged bleeding.
Heavy bleeding after intercourse.
Unusual bleeding, often foul-smelling, thick, watery, or containing mucous.
Dull aches or sharp pains in the pelvic area.
Tiredness.
Pain during intercourse.
Swollen legs.
Lower back pain.
Any unusual vaginal discharge.
Pain during urination (after the cancer has spread to the bladder).

A cervical cancer vaccine is now available for females aged 9 to 45. A pap smear once every two years will help you catch any symptoms before the disease moves into the high risk category.

Learn more about this author, Lin Edwards.
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