Cervical cancer is largely preventable. HPV causes most cases; vaccination and regular screening detect and stop precancerous changes. See a clinician for abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, or unusual discharge.

Why cervical cancer is preventable

Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that is largely preventable. Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) causes nearly all cervical cancers, and effective tools exist to prevent and detect disease early: HPV vaccination, regular screening, and treatment of precancerous changes.

How HPV and cervical changes work

Most HPV infections clear on their own within one to two years because the immune system eliminates the virus. When an HPV infection persists, it can cause abnormal changes to cervical cells (dysplasia). Left untreated, some of these changes can progress over years to invasive cancer. HPV types 16 and 18 account for the largest share of cervical cancers; vaccines now protect against the most dangerous types.

Screening: what and when

Screening finds abnormal cells before they become cancer. The two primary methods are cytology (Pap test) and HPV testing. In the U.S., current guidance is to begin screening at age 21. From 21-29 years, cytology every three years is standard. From 30-65 years, options include primary HPV testing every five years, co-testing (HPV plus cytology) every five years, or cytology alone every three years. Follow local public health guidance for different countries and individual risk factors.

Treating precancerous changes

If screening shows persistent abnormal cells, clinicians use targeted exams (colposcopy) and take biopsies. Precancerous lesions are often treatable with outpatient procedures such as loop electrosurgical excision (LEEP), cryotherapy, or conization. Treating these lesions significantly reduces the risk of developing invasive cancer and usually preserves fertility.

Symptoms that need evaluation

Early cervical changes usually cause no symptoms, which is why screening matters. When symptoms appear, they can include:
  • Vaginal bleeding after sex
  • Bleeding between periods or after menopause
  • Unusually heavy menstrual bleeding
  • Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse
  • Unusual vaginal discharge or increased urinary frequency
Any of these signs merit prompt evaluation, especially if you have not kept up with regular screening.

Prevention beyond screening

HPV vaccination (for example, the nonavalent vaccine commonly used today) prevents infection with the HPV types most likely to cause cancer. Vaccination is recommended in early adolescence, with catch-up and shared decision-making options for older age groups. Condom use and limiting number of sexual partners also lower HPV risk but do not eliminate it.

Bottom line

Regular HPV vaccination and age-appropriate screening prevent most cervical cancers. If you notice symptoms listed above or have questions about screening intervals or vaccination, talk with your clinician.

FAQs about Signs Of Cervical Cancer

How does HPV cause cervical cancer?
Persistent infection with high-risk HPV types can cause abnormal cervical cell changes (dysplasia). Over years, some untreated dysplasia can progress to invasive cancer.
When should I start cervical cancer screening?
Screening generally starts at age 21. From 21-29 years, cytology (Pap) every three years is typical. From 30-65 years, options include primary HPV testing every five years, co-testing every five years, or Pap every three years.
Can the HPV vaccine prevent cervical cancer?
Yes. Current HPV vaccines protect against the HPV types most likely to cause cervical cancer and are most effective when given before exposure to HPV, typically in early adolescence.
What are common treatments for precancerous cervical changes?
Common outpatient treatments include loop electrosurgical excision (LEEP), cryotherapy, and conization. These remove abnormal tissue and greatly reduce cancer risk.
What symptoms should prompt immediate medical attention?
Seek evaluation for vaginal bleeding after sex, bleeding between periods or after menopause, pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, unusually heavy bleeding, or unusual vaginal discharge.

News about Signs Of Cervical Cancer

Cervical Cancer: Fewer Screenings Needed for Those Who Get HPV Shot - Healthline [Visit Site | Read More]

Hard to spot cancer could appear as back pain warn experts - Surrey Live [Visit Site | Read More]

Lower back pain could be easy to miss sign of common cancer - The Mirror [Visit Site | Read More]

The silent symptoms of cervical cancer you need to monitor closely - InYourArea [Visit Site | Read More]

Main cervical cancer symptoms and 2 best ways to reduce risk to 1 per cent - MyLondon [Visit Site | Read More]

Cervical cancer - World Health Organization (WHO) [Visit Site | Read More]

Don’t ignore your cervical screening invitation – it could save your life - Public Health Agency [Visit Site | Read More]

'I thought my symptoms were linked to childbirth but I had cancer' - BBC [Visit Site | Read More]