Cervical Cancer

Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the cervix—the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina—grow uncontrollably and form a malignant tumor. It is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer, especially when detected early through regular screening.

The main cause of cervical cancer is persistent infection with high-risk types of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

Causes and Risk Factors

The primary cause of cervical cancer is chronic infection with high-risk HPV strains, particularly HPV 16 and 18.

Other risk factors include:

Early sexual activity or multiple sexual partners
Smoking
Weakened immune system (e.g., HIV infection)
Long-term use of oral contraceptives
Poor genital hygiene
Family history of cervical cancer
Lack of regular Pap smear screening
Giving birth to many children (high parity)

Types of Cervical Cancer

1. Squamous Cell Carcinoma

The most common type, arising from the outer lining of the cervix.

2. Adenocarcinoma

Develops from glandular cells in the cervical canal.

3. Adenosquamous Carcinoma

Contains features of both squamous and glandular cells.

Signs and Symptoms

Early stages of cervical cancer often have no symptoms, which is why screening is vital. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:

Unusual vaginal bleeding (between periods, after intercourse, or post-menopause)
Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Pelvic or lower back pain
Pain during sexual intercourse
Leg swelling or fatigue (in advanced stages)

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek prompt medical evaluation.

Screening and Diagnosis

Early detection saves lives. Routine screening can detect precancerous changes before they become cancerous.

1. Pap Smear (Pap Test)

Detects abnormal cervical cells
Recommended every 3 years (ages 21–65)

2. HPV Testing

Identifies high-risk HPV types
Often combined with Pap test (co-testing) every 5 years

3. Colposcopy

A closer visual examination of the cervix if a Pap test is abnormal

4. Biopsy

Confirms diagnosis by analyzing tissue under a microscope

5. Imaging (CT, MRI, PET scan)

To check for cancer spread (staging)

Staging

Cervical cancer is staged from Stage 0 (precancer) to Stage IV (advanced cancer):

Stage I: Cancer confined to the cervix
Stage II: Spread beyond cervix but not to pelvic wall
Stage III: Spread to pelvic wall or lower vagina
Stage IV: Spread to distant organs (lungs, liver, bones)

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the stage, size of the tumor, patient’s age, and fertility goals.

1. Surgery

Conization: For early-stage lesions
Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus (may be simple or radical)
Trachelectomy: Cervix removal while preserving uterus (for fertility preservation)

2. Radiation Therapy

Often combined with chemotherapy in locally advanced cases
Can be external beam or internal (brachytherapy)

3. Chemotherapy

Used for advanced or metastatic disease
May be combined with radiation (chemoradiation)

4. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy

For recurrent or metastatic cases
Agents like bevacizumab or immune checkpoint inhibitors

Prevention

1. HPV Vaccination

Most effective when given before sexual activity begins
Recommended for girls and boys aged 9–14, and catch-up vaccines up to age 26

2. Regular Screening

Pap and HPV tests are key to early detection

3. Safe Sexual Practices

Use of condoms and limiting number of sexual partners

4. Smoking Cessation

Reduces risk significantly

Why Choose Aster Hospitals for Cervical Cancer Care?

Aster Hospitals offers comprehensive and compassionate care for cervical cancer, combining medical excellence with personalized support. We focus on early detection through advanced screening programs and provide access to on-site HPV vaccination and expert gynecologic counseling. Our multidisciplinary tumor boards ensure individualized treatment plans, drawing on expertise in minimally invasive surgery, chemoradiation, and cutting-edge immunotherapy. For women who wish to preserve fertility, we offer fertility-sparing options tailored to their needs. Throughout the journey, we provide emotional and psychological support, walking beside each woman with empathy, dignity, and a commitment to her complete recovery.