Cervical cancer history and symptoms

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [2]

Overview

Cervical cancer may be entirely asymptomatic at first, later manifesting in a range of symptoms such as loss of appetite, fatigue, and edema.

History and Symptoms

The early stages of cervical cancer may be completely asymptomatic (Canavan & Doshi, 2000). Vaginal bleeding, contact bleeding or (rarely) a vaginal mass may indicate the presence of malignancy. Also, moderate pain during sexual intercourse and vaginal discharge are symptoms of cervical cancer. In advanced disease, metastases may be present in the abdomen, lungs or elsewhere.

Early cervical cancers usually don't cause symptoms. When the cancer grows larger, women may notice one or more of these symptoms:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
  • Bleeding that occurs between regular menstrual periods
  • Bleeding after sexual intercourse, douching, or a pelvic exam
  • Menstrual periods that last longer and are heavier than before
  • Bleeding after going through menopause

• Increased vaginal discharge
  • Pelvic pain
  • Pain during sex

Infections or other health problems may also cause these symptoms. Only a doctor can tell for sure. A woman with any of these symptoms should tell her doctor so that problems can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible.

Symptoms of advanced cervical cancer may include:

• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Pelvic pain
• Back pain
• Leg pain
• Single swollen leg
• Heavy bleeding from the vagina
• Leaking of urine or feces from the vagina,
• Bone fractures