Cervical Cancer
What Is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer begins in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Most cases are caused by long-lasting infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Because it develops slowly, cervical cancer can often be prevented or found early through regular screening tests such as Pap smears and HPV testing.
Risk Factors
Certain factors increase the risk of cervical cancer:
- Persistent HPV infection (the strongest risk factor)
- Smoking
- Weakened immune system (including from HIV infection or immunosuppressive medications)
- Multiple sexual partners or early sexual activity, which raise the chance of HPV exposure
- Long-term use of oral contraceptives
- Having three or more full-term pregnancies
- Family history of cervical cancer
Symptoms
Early-stage cervical cancer may not cause any symptoms. As it progresses, warning signs can include:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding (after sex, between periods or after menopause)
- Unusual vaginal discharge that may be watery, pink or foul-smelling
- Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse
Because early cervical cancer often has no symptoms, regular screening is critical.
Treatment
At AtlantiCare, cervical cancer care is personalized and delivered by a team of gynecologic oncologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, nurse navigators and supportive care specialists.
Treatment options may include:
- Surgery – removal of abnormal or cancerous tissue, which may include procedures such as conization, hysterectomy or radical trachelectomy (a fertility-preserving option for select patients)
- Radiation therapy – external beam radiation or brachytherapy, often used with chemotherapy for more advanced stages
- Medical oncology – chemotherapy, targeted therapy or immunotherapy depending on stage and tumor biology
- Clinical trials – access to innovative treatments through AtlantiCare’s affiliation with the Cleveland Clinic Cancer Institute
Prevention
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers with proper screening and vaccination.
Steps include:
- HPV vaccination – recommended for preteens, teens and eligible adults up to age 45
- Routine screening – Pap tests and HPV testing to find precancerous changes early
- Safe practices – practicing safe sex and limiting the number of sexual partners lowers HPV exposure
- Healthy lifestyle – quitting smoking and maintaining a strong immune system support overall cervical health