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Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer often develops without noticeable signs in its early stages, which is why regular screening is so important. When symptoms do appear, they can vary from subtle changes to more persistent discomfort. Recognising these signs early and seeking medical advice can make a life‑saving difference.
Unusual vaginal bleeding
This is the most common early symptom. It may include:
- Bleeding after sex
- Bleeding between periods
- Bleeding after menopause
- Bleeding after pelvic examinations
Any bleeding that feels unusual for your body should be checked by a healthcare professional.
Changes in vaginal discharge
Discharge may become:
- Heavier than usual
- Watery or mixed with blood
- Foul‑smelling
- Persistent or unusual in colour
These changes can have many causes, but they should never be ignored.
Pelvic, lower back, or abdominal pain
Persistent pain or pressure in the pelvic area, lower back, or lower abdomen—especially when it is not linked to your menstrual cycle—can be a sign of cervical changes.
Pain or discomfort during sex
Pain during intercourse may indicate changes in the cervix or surrounding tissues. This symptom should always be assessed by a healthcare provider.
Difficulty urinating or changes in bowel habits
In more advanced stages, cervical cancer can press on nearby organs, leading to:
- Pain when urinating
- Needing to urinate more often
- Constipation
- Blood in urine
These symptoms usually appear later but are important to recognise.
Unexplained fatigue or weight loss
As with many cancers, advanced cervical cancer can cause tiredness, loss of appetite, or unintentional weight loss.
A reminder
These symptoms can be caused by many conditions other than cervical cancer. Experiencing one or more does not mean you have cancer. However, it is always safest to speak with a healthcare professional if something doesn’t feel right for your body.
