Cancer present in the cervix area is called cervical cancer. It is the part which connects vagina and the lower part of the uterus.
The infection of HPV virus leads to cervical cancers. Infection with HPV occurs through sexual contact. When HPV enters the human body, it counteracts the workings of the immune system so that some cervical cells may become cancer cells.
Signs and symptoms
In general, symptoms are not shown in cervical cancer, but it may show symptoms as it becomes more severe.
- Bleeding after intercourse
- Bleeding between periods and after menopause
- Pain in the pelvic region
- Intercourse pain
- Vaginal discharge will be heavy, strong, or unusual in color and give off a foul smell.
- Heavier menstrual bleeding lasts for long periods.
Causes
DNA has instructions for the regular activities of the healthy cell. Genetic changes in DNA make cells divide continuously to form a mass of cells called a tumor. These tumors damage the normal tissue and may spread to other body parts.
HPV is the virus that causes cervical cancer and the infection will go away from the body by a strong immune system. In some others HPV may result in cancers by changing the cell cycle process. Means of spreading HPV is through sexual contact.
Types of cervical cancer
Two types of cervical cancers are present based on the type of cell in which the cancer starts.
- Squamous cell carcinoma. In this, squamous cells which are thin and flat in the outer part of the cervix are affected.It is the most common cervical cancer.
- Adenocarcinoma. It occurs in column-shaped gland cells in the cervical canal.
Risk factors
Smoking. The risk of cervical cancer increases with smoking. If people with HPV infections smoke, then the infection would stay longer and cause cervical cancer.
Multiple sexual partners. Having multiple sexual partners is a bigger risk to HPV infections
Young age sex may be a risk of HPV infection.
Sexually transmitted infections (STI’s). Herpes, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV/AIDS increases the risk of HPV infections.
Weak immune system. Chances of getting cervical cancer are high when a person’s immune system is weakened by another health condition.
Miscarriage prevention medicine. Diethylstilbestrol is the medicine used mis carriage. Chance of cervical cancer to a woman prevails If her mother uses this medicine during pregnancy and is an adenocarcinoma.
Prevention
- HPV vaccination. Taking HPV vaccines can reduce the risk of getting cervical cancer.
- Pap tests. Regular pap smear tests are suggested for women after the age of 21. These tests can detect precancerous cells in the cervix and can be monitored or treated to prevent cervical cancer.
- Safe sex. Using contraceptive devices such as condoms and diaphragms during sex can prevent sexually transmitted diseases and the risk of cervical cancer. A single sexual partner will be a safe method to reduce the risk.
- Stop smoking. Avoid smoking and using other tobacco products.
Disclaimer:
This information on this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content in this site contained through this Web site is for general information purposes only.
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