In the early stages, cervical cancer doesn’t exhibit any evident symptoms. Only after routine pap tests, abnormal cells in the cervix can be detected and treated at the earliest. Women should get pap tests starting at the age of 21. Read on to know some common signs and risk factors of cervical cancer.

Signs of cervical cancer

• Abnormal bleeding from the vagina

Abnormal vaginal bleeding is one of the signs of cervical cancer. Vaginal bleeding may occur after menopause or vaginal sex. A woman may also have spotting and bleeding in between periods and douching or periods might be heavier or longer.

• Unusual vaginal discharge

In the case of cervical cancer, there might be unusual discharge from the vagina. This discharge may occur after menopause, in between periods, and might contain blood.

• Pelvic, appendix, or low back pain

Continuous pain in the lower back, pelvic region, or the appendix can be a sign of cervical cancer. In most cases, the pelvic pain, especially near the appendix, doesn’t usually happen unless cancer has reached an advanced stage. Other signs would normally surface before pelvic pain.

• Leg pain 

When cervical cancer has reached an advanced stage, it may begin to press against pelvic walls nerves that might further lead to swelling and pain in the legs. If there is swelling, you can check for other medical conditions. But if there is persistent leg pain, it could be a sign of cervical cancer.

• Loss of appetite

Unexplained loss of appetite or weight loss is one of the most common signs of cervical cancer. Weight loss may continue to occur despite a healthy diet.

Risk factors of cervical cancer

• Immune system deficiency

Women undergoing treatments for AIDS, organ transplantation, or other types of cancer have a lower immune system, making them vulnerable to cervical cancer. The immune system can even be lowered from corticosteroid medications.

• Oral Contraceptives 

Researchers suggest that birth control pills may increase the chances of cervical cancer. However, more research has to be conducted to find how oral contraceptives can lead to cervical cancer.

• DES (Diethylstilbestrol) Exposure

DES was given to women between 1940 and 1970 to prevent miscarriage during pregnancy. Women whose mothers were given DES should get an annual pelvic examination since they are at a high risk of getting a rare kind of vaginal or cervical cancer.

The above risk factors may increase the chances of cancer development and might not lead to cancer eventually. However, if you have observed any of the above risk factors, you should get your tests done, live an informed lifestyle, and keep your doctor in the loop.