Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, especially in developing countries such as Vietnam. According to GLOBOCAN 2022 statistics, Vietnam records over 4,600 new cases annually, with approximately 2,600 deaths from this disease. The key message is that early detection can lead to a complete cure, helping women maintain their health, fertility, and quality of life.
The issue lies in many women ignoring early warning signs or avoiding gynecological exams. Listed below are five noticeable signs that are often overlooked – pay attention to your body and don’t take them lightly!
1. Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
Bleeding outside the menstrual cycle or after sexual intercourse is a primary warning sign of cervical cancer. Even if the amount of blood is minimal, painless, or transient, it is still an abnormal condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Particularly for postmenopausal women, any bleeding is a serious warning sign. Do not delay seeking medical advice, as this could indicate early malignant lesions.
This occurs because cancer cells can damage small blood vessels in the cervix, causing spontaneous bleeding or bleeding during intercourse.
2. Abnormal Vaginal Discharge
Another notable signal is a change in vaginal discharge. If you notice a discoloration of your vaginal discharge, such as yellow, green, brown, blood-tinged, or an unpleasant odor, seek medical advice immediately.
A cervical tumor can cause inflammation or tissue necrosis, leading to abnormal discharge. The discharge may be too watery or abnormally thick – all signs that require attention.
3. Pain or Bleeding During Intercourse
If you experience pain or bleeding during sexual intercourse, it should not be ignored. While there may be other gynecological issues, cervical cancer must be ruled out first.
When a tumor develops on the cervix, friction during intercourse can easily cause bleeding, inflammation, or prolonged pain. This indicates that there is already damage, and medical intervention is necessary.
4. Pelvic, Lower Abdominal, or Lower Back Pain
Pain may be felt subtly in the lower abdomen, spreading to the pelvis or back, and is usually unrelated to the menstrual cycle. As the tumor grows, it can compress nearby tissues, nerves, or lymph nodes, causing continuous pain.
If the pain persists without a clear cause, especially when accompanied by the above signs, do not hesitate to seek gynecological advice. Delaying a visit to the doctor only allows the disease to progress silently to a more dangerous stage.
5. Urinary Disorders and Leg Swelling
Tumor growth can compress the bladder and urethra, leading to symptoms such as painful, frequent, or difficult urination. In some severe cases, there may be blood in the urine.
Additionally, leg edema, especially if it occurs only on one side, could indicate that the cancer has affected the pelvic lymph nodes. This represents an advanced stage of the disease, requiring immediate treatment.
Why Early Detection Matters
Early detection and treatment of cervical cancer significantly improve survival rates and the quality of care:
- The five-year survival rate can reach 91-95% with early diagnosis.
- Treatment costs are lower, interventions are simpler, and there is less impact on the patient’s physical and mental health.
- Early detection helps preserve fertility, and timely treatment can prevent the need for a hysterectomy.
Conversely, in advanced stages, the survival rate drops to 20-30%, treatment becomes complex and expensive, and reproductive health is severely impacted.
What to Do If You Suspect Cervical Cancer Symptoms
1. Seek Immediate Gynecological Examination
Do not delay. When your body sends abnormal signals, the first step is to visit a specialized medical facility for a check-up.
2. Regular Screening
Pap smears and HPV tests are the most effective ways to detect cervical cancer early. Women aged 21 to 65 should be screened every three years. For those over 30, HPV testing can be combined for increased accuracy.
3. HPV Vaccination
The HPV vaccine prevents up to 90% of cervical cancer cases. Ideally, vaccination should occur before becoming sexually active, but adults can still get vaccinated under medical supervision.
Cervical cancer is a preventable and curable disease with early detection. Do not ignore any signs such as abnormal bleeding, unusual discharge, pain during intercourse, pelvic pain, urinary disorders, or leg swelling.
Women should take charge of their reproductive health, undergo regular screening, and not hesitate to consult a doctor when in doubt. Protecting yourself today is also about safeguarding the future for your family and loved ones.
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4. Persistent pain or discomfort
