Cervical Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

Before invasive cervical cancer develops, cells on the cervix may undergo abnormal changes known as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). These changes are not the same as invasive cancer, but some higher-grade abnormalities can progress if left untreated.

Cervical screening and appropriate follow-up can help detect these changes early. Depending on the findings, treatment may include procedures such as LEEP, LLETZ or cone biopsy.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common infection transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin or sexual contact. Certain high-risk HPV types can cause persistent changes in cervical cells that may eventually develop into cancer.

HPV vaccination can help protect against the HPV types responsible for many cervical cancers. Vaccination does not replace cervical screening, because it does not protect against every HPV type that can cause cancer.

Cervical screening can identify high-risk HPV infection and abnormal cervical cells before invasive cervical cancer develops. Depending on the screening programme, screening may involve an HPV test, Pap test or both.

Screening recommendations vary according to age, previous screening results, vaccination status and individual risk. Follow the screening schedule recommended by your healthcare professional.

Some cervical cancer treatments can affect fertility, sexual function and hormonal health. Selected women with early-stage disease may be eligible for fertility-sparing treatment. Your care team can discuss fertility preservation, menopause, sexual health and other treatment-related concerns before treatment begins.

Cervical cancer prognosis varies between individuals. Factors include the stage at diagnosis, tumour size, lymph node involvement, tumour type, response to treatment and whether the cancer has spread beyond the cervix.

Survival statistics describe outcomes in groups of patients and cannot predict an individual patient's outcome. Your treating team can explain prognosis based on your specific diagnosis, stage and response to treatment.

Cervical cancer is one of the cancers for which prevention and early detection can play an important role. HPV vaccination can reduce the risk of infection with cancer-causing HPV types, while regular cervical screening can identify precancerous changes before they develop into invasive cancer.

• Follow recommended cervical screening
• Consider HPV vaccination according to medical advice and applicable vaccination guidelines
• Avoid smoking
• Practise safer sex to reduce the risk of HPV and other infections
• Follow up promptly after an abnormal screening result

Abnormal vaginal bleeding, unusual discharge or persistent pelvic symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.