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Dr. Rajesh Patel, MD.
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Ask the Doctor!
August 2009
Q:
What are some of the symptoms of cervical cancer?
-- P. Lugo, Lincolnwood, IL
A:
Cervical cancer, like many other cancers, may not carry any symptoms in it’s initial phase of growth. When symptoms actually do appear, this cancer may have already become invasive and spread extensively into surrounding tissue.
Common symptoms include having some bleeding outside of your period, any abnormal vaginal discharge, pain or bleeding during sexual intercourse, or bleeding after menopause. Some other symptoms are weight loss, pain in the pelvis, thighs or back, any blood in the urine or from the rectum, excessive fatigue, and trouble urinating. Although these symptoms can often arise in other illnesses, it’s extremely important to seek immediate medical attention in order to prevent the growth of this silent cancer. Any delay in detection and treatment can potentially carry grave consequences.
The good news is that we can readily detect and prevent cervical cancer growth by performing a routine Pap smear. This test can help us see if the cells of the cervix are abnormal and warrants further testing. If the abnormal tissue is caught early and fully removed, there’s a great chance it won’t lead to future harmful effects.
Because the Pap smear is so effective in cancer screening, it should be done every year. If you‘re age 26 and under, the HPV vaccine* can help prevent cervical cancer about 70% of the time. However, this vaccine can prevent a future cancer, but not remove a cancer existing prior to the vaccine. That’s why it is not considered a replacement for the annual Pap smear. See your doctor if any unusual symptoms appear and to discuss appropriate care. And remember to have an annual gynecologic check-up to prevent the risk of cervical cancer growth.
*The HPV vaccine is a series of three injections directed towards preventing Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a commonly encountered infection and a major cause of cervical cancer.
Submit your questions to askthedoctor@nowoodennickels.org
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