Cervical Cancer Symptoms
In most cases cervical cancer symptoms are simply not present and that is why it is so important that women attend a routine smear test every 3 to 5 years depending on their age.
Smear tests pick up abnormal cervical cells when they are at a pre-cancerous stage, ie before the cancer has developed, allowing women to receive appropriate treatment.
If however, you do develop cervical cancer the following symptoms may be present:
Abnormal Bleeding: You may experience vaginal bleeding between periods or after you have had sex.
Vaginal Pain: If you experience any vaginal pain during intercourse then you should always get it checked out.
Unpleasant Vaginal Discharge: In itself an abnormal vaginal discharge doesn't necessarily mean you have cervical cancer - you may have an infection or be suffering from thrush. However, it is important to be aware that it can be a symptom.
Post-Menopausal Vaginal Bleeding: If you experience any vaginal bleeding after you've gone through the menopause then you should make an appointment to see your gp.
- You should visit your GP if you experience any of the above as although they don't always indicate cervical cancer, they are abnormal so need to be ruled out as potential cervical cancer symptoms.
