When cervical cancer begins in the cervix it’s also known as cervical cancer. The cervix attaches the vagina to the top of the uterus (giving birth). The cervix is also associated with menstruation and pregnancy.
The cervix and the uterus are closely connected to each other through the cervix and the vagina. The cervix and vagina connect via a cavity known as the cervix. The cervix and vagina also connect to each other through the fallopian tubes that transfer sperm from the male to the female reproductive system. There is an opening in the top of the vagina called a tampon hole.
When cells in the cervix change to cancerous or abnormal cells, they travel up to the uterus where they join the larger mass of cells that makes up the ovaries in the womb. These abnormal or cancerous cells may begin to grow together with the undamaged or healthy cells. When this occurs, the cells can start to spread out into the abdomen and other parts of the female reproductive system. It is possible these cells can spread to the lymph nodes and other parts of the body.
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer Most females will experience some form of vaginal discharge when they have cervical cancer. This discharge may be clear or whitish in color and usually has a fishy smell. If there is a significant amount of odor or burning in this vaginal discharge, it would be a good idea to contact a doctor immediately. Other symptoms of this type of cancer include pelvic pain, swelling, and fever. These same symptoms could also indicate breast cancer or ovarian cancer in females.
Tests to Determine the Type of Cancer There are a few different tests that doctors can use to determine the type of cervical cancer that a patient may have. A doctor can order an ultrasound to see if abnormal bleeding is present in a woman’s vaginal discharge. This is one way to determine if the bleeding is caused by bleeding in the cervix. A Pap test can be ordered to check for abnormalities in a woman’s genitalia. The most common abnormal bleeding caused by this type of cancer is called intrapersonal hemorrhage.
Treatment of Cervical Cancer A treatment plan will be developed after a diagnosis has been made of cancer. The treatment plans will depend on what stage the cervical cancer begins at. Stage I is not that severe and does not necessarily need treatment right away. Stage IV is the most severe and should be monitored closely.
Women who have symptoms that seem like they are related to cervical cancer should contact their doctor immediately. They should know the difference between the early stages of cancer versus the later stages. If left unnoticed, it could get so bad that death could occur. Early detection is key for survival.
Pelvic Pain A woman can experience any number of symptoms associated with cervical cancer. Some of these include problems with urination, vaginal bleeding, and pelvic pain. Women should always have any of these symptoms checked out by a physician. The doctor will be able to determine if these symptoms are related to other conditions or if they are caused from something that can be treated.
Infections Other causes of cervical cancer include bacterial infections and viral infections. A sexually transmitted disease (STD) is the most common cause of this condition. Some STDs such as HIV or hepatitis can cause a reaction in the area of the cervix that can cause serious complications. Genital warts are another STD that can be passed from one partner to the other. This condition is treatable but cannot be cured.
Cancer That Forms The cervix is situated within the uterus and the lining that surrounds it is called the endometrium. When cells of the endometrium begin to grow abnormally they can develop into tumors. These tumors are classified as squamous cells. Any change in the cells of the endometrium can lead to cervical cancer when the condition reaches the point of the cells becoming cancerous.
Tumors and Nodules In addition to changes in the cells of the cervix and endometrium, tumors and nodules can be found on the other side of the uterus. Nodules are solid growths that form in the uterine wall. Some of these growths can become so large that they can block the passage of urine and/or create a painful cyst. When the size of the nodule increases it can also block the flow of blood to the uterus. If the cancerous tumor extends outside the cervix, it is referred to as adenocarcinoma.