The cervix is a vital part of the female reproductive system, serving as the lower, narrow portion of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It plays a key role in various aspects of reproductive health, including menstruation, childbirth, and protection against infections. The cervix produces mucus that helps prevent harmful bacteria and viruses from entering the uterus and facilitates sperm movement during ovulation. Understanding and prioritizing cervical health is essential to overall wellness and fertility.

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cells of the cervix. It occurs when abnormal cells in the cervix grow uncontrollably, often as a result of persistent infection with high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). This disease poses a significant public health challenge, impacting millions of women globally. Understanding its causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment is essential to safeguarding women’s health.

Cervical cancer poses a major public health challenge, impacting millions of women around the globe. This type of cancer originates in the cervix, the lower, narrow section of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is vital to understand cervical cancer, including its causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment options, as it plays an important role in women’s health.

January, recognized as Cervical Health Awareness Month, serves as an essential time to raise awareness and inform ourselves about this disease, encouraging early detection and prevention efforts.

Factors Contributing to Cervical Cancer

The main cause of cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus (HPV), a prevalent sexually transmitted infection. There are over 100 strains of HPV, and while most are not associated with cancer, specific high-risk strains, such as HPV-16 and HPV-18, can lead to cervical cancer if not addressed. Continuous infection with these high-risk HPV strains can result in changes to cervical cells that may eventually become cancerous.

Additional causes that may heighten the risk of cervical cancer include:

• Smoking: Tobacco use can impair the immune system, which can hinder the body’s ability to combat HPV infections.
• Weakened Immune System: Conditions that weaken the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS, can elevate the risk of cervical cancer.
• Chronic Inflammation: Prolonged inflammation in the cervix can play a role in the development of cancer.
• Multiple Sexual Partners: Having numerous sexual partners increases the likelihood of being exposed to HPV.
• Early Sexual Activity: Engaging in sexual activity at a young age can raise the risk of HPV infection.

Cervical Cancer Symptoms

Cervical cancer typically does not produce obvious symptoms in its early stages, which is why consistent screening is essential. As the disease advances, the following symptoms may occur:

• Abnormal Bleeding: Bleeding that occurs between menstrual cycles, after sexual intercourse, or following menopause.
• Pelvic Pain: Ongoing discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic region.
• Unusual Vaginal Discharge: Discharge that may be watery, bloody, or have a strong odor.
• Discomfort During Urination or Bowel Movements: Pain experienced while urinating or going to the bathroom.

Cervical Cancer Prevention

Prevention measures aim to lower the risk of HPV infection and identify cervical cancer at an early stage:

• HPV Vaccination: The HPV vaccine provides protection against the types of HPV that most frequently lead to cervical cancer. It is recommended for both girls and boys aged 11 to 12, but can be administered up to age 26.
• Regular screening using tests like HPV DNA, Pap smear, or a combination of these two, as well as others: Pap tests can identify early precancerous changes in cervical cells, enabling timely treatment. The American Cancer Society advises beginning Pap tests at age 21 and continuing every 3 years until age 65, with an option for a combination of Pap and HPV tests every 5 years.
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Ending tobacco use, following a nutritious diet, and exercising regularly can promote overall wellness and lower the risk of cervical cancer.
• Safe Sexual Practices: Utilizing condoms can diminish the risk of HPV infection, although it doesn’t guarantee complete protection.

Treatment

The treatment for cervical cancer varies based on the stage of the disease, the dimensions and shape of the cervix, and the patient’s overall health. Typical treatment methods include:

• Surgery: Early-stage cervical cancer may be addressed with a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) or a trachelectomy (removal of the cervix while preserving the uterus).
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy radiation can destroy cancer cells. External beam radiation therapy is given from outside the body, while brachytherapy involves placing radioactive material inside the cervix.
• Chemotherapy: Medications can kill cancer cells or prevent them from dividing. Chemotherapy is often combined with radiation therapy.
• Targeted Therapy: These medications focus on specific abnormalities in cancer cells, such as the growth of blood vessels or cell division.

Conclusion

Cervical cancer is preventable and treatable when detected early. Regular screening, vaccination, and healthy lifestyle choices are essential. Understanding risks, symptoms, and treatment options can help protect against cervical cancer. Regular Pap tests and HPV vaccinations are crucial for early detection and prevention.

At Vivagest, we urge all women to be vigilant and take the right steps to safeguard cervical health. You can help ensure healthy fertility and families by prioritizing regular screenings and vaccinations.