Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer originates in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. This type of cancer can be effectively prevented through regular screening tests and receiving a vaccine that protects against HPV (human papillomavirus), which is the most common viral infection of the reproductive tract and the main cause of cervical cancer.                            

Types of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is typically classified into two main types based on the kind of cells where the cancer begins:            

• Squamous cell carcinoma:  
  
  • This is the most common type of cervical cancer, accounting for about 70-90% of cases. It begins in the thin, flat cells (squamous cells) lining the outer part of the cervix, which projects into the vagina.
• Adenocarcinoma: 
  
  • This type makes up 10-20% of cases and begins in the glandular cells that line the cervical canal.

Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

In its early stages, cervical cancer generally produces no symptoms or signs. As the cancer progresses, women may notice symptoms such as:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding, including bleeding after sex, between periods, or after menopause.
• Unusual vaginal discharge, which may be watery, bloody, or have a foul odor.
• Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse.

Risk Factors of Cervical Cancer

Factors that can increase the risk of developing cervical cancer include:

• HPV infection: 
  
  • The primary risk factor for cervical cancer. There are many types of HPV, but types 16 and 18 are the most commonly associated with cervical cancer.
• Multiple sexual partners: : 
  
  • The more sexual partners one has, the greater the chance of acquiring HPV.
• Early sexual activity:  
  
  • Engaging in sexual activity at a young age increases the likelihood of HPV infection.
• Other sexually transmitted infections (STIs):  
  
  • Having other STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, or HIV/AIDS, can increase the risk.
• A weakened immune system: :  
  
  • The risk of cervical cancer is higher in those with weakened immune systems, such as from HIV/AIDS or taking drugs that suppress the immune system.
• Smoking:   
  
  • Women who smoke are about twice as likely as non-smokers to get cervical cancer.

Prevention & Early Detection

• HPV vaccination:
  
  • Recommended for girls and boys to protect against the types of HPV that most commonly cause cervical cancer.
• Regular cervical screening:
  
• Safe sex practices:
  
  • Using condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners can help reduce the risk of HPV.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the stage of the cancer, the size of the tumor, and the age and overall health of the woman:

• Surgery:
  
  • Options include procedures that attempt to preserve fertility for women who want to have children and more radical procedures like a hysterectomy.
• Radiation Therapy:
  
  • Can be used as a primary treatment or alongside chemotherapy for more advanced stages of cervical cancer.
• Chemotherapy: 
  
  • Often used along with radiation therapy for advanced cervical cancer or for cancer that has recurred.

Raising awareness about HPV and cervical cancer screening is crucial for prevention, and early detection through regular screening remains the most effective way to identify and treat cervical conditions before they develop into cancer.

 Cancer Portal

Support & Resources

Cervical Screening
Information & Support

Cervical screening (a smear test) is a test to check the health of the cervix and help prevent cervical cancer. 

The smear test checks the health of your cervix. The cervix is the opening of your womb from your vagina. It is not a test for cancer. It is a test to help prevent cancer. All women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64 should be invited for a smear test.

You will be sent an invitation letter in the post when it is time to book your cervical screening appointment. 

Your invitation letter will tell you where you can go for cervical screening and how to book. Most cervical screening is done in a GP surgery by a female nurse or doctor.

Invitation Schedule

Cervical Screening Information

Cervical Screening - How it's done.

Cervical Screening - what to expect.