Cervical Cancer Warning Signs: What You Should Know

Empowering patients and caregivers in the Capital District with the knowledge to recognize early warning signs of cervical cancer can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes. Understanding risk factors, symptoms, and prevention strategies is an important step toward protecting women’s health and accessing timely, expert care.

Written by: Tana Pradhan, D.O.
Board-Certified Gynecologic Oncologist at New York Oncology Hematology

Understanding Cervical Cancer and Risk Factors

Cervical cancer begins in the cells of the cervix, which connects the uterus to the vagina. Most cases are caused by a long-lasting infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus spread through sexual contact.

Thanks to HPV vaccination and regular screening, cervical cancer rates have declined over time. However, the disease remains a serious concern, particularly in communities with limited access to preventive care. Certain factors can increase the risk of cervical cancer, including:

• Persistent HPV infection
• Smoking
• Weakened immune system
• Early sexual activity or multiple sexual partners
• Lack of regular Pap or HPV screening

Understanding these risks helps patients and caregivers take proactive steps toward prevention and early detection.

Early Warning Signs of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer often develops slowly and may not cause symptoms in its earliest stages. This makes awareness and routine screening especially important.

Common warning signs of cervical cancer include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding after intercourse, between periods, or after menopause
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Pelvic pain or discomfort during intercourse

These symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions, but they should never be ignored. Anyone experiencing persistent or unusual symptoms should contact their healthcare provider promptly. Caregivers can play an important role by encouraging loved ones to seek medical evaluation early.

Why Cervical Cancer Screening and Prevention Matter

Regular cervical cancer screening is one of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer or detect it early, when it is most treatable. The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that women and others with a cervix who are at average risk begin cervical cancer screening at age 25 and continue through at least age 65.

The type of screening test and how often it is done depend on the method used:

• Primary HPV testing every 5 years (preferred option)
  This test checks for high-risk HPV infection using a cervical sample collected by a healthcare provider.
• Self-collected HPV testing every 3 years
  This option allows patients to collect their own sample using a soft swab, either in a clinic or at home. A healthcare provider must still order the test.
• HPV and Pap test co-testing every 5 years
  This combines HPV testing with a Pap test, which looks for abnormal cervical cells.
• Pap test alone every 3 years
  If other options are unavailable, a Pap test alone remains an effective screening method.

In addition to screening, HPV vaccination plays a key role in prevention. Staying up to date with recommended screening and vaccination greatly reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer and supports long-term cervical health.

How Gynecologic Oncologists Diagnose and Treat Cervical Cancer

When abnormal screening results or concerning symptoms are found, evaluation by a gynecologic oncologist is essential. Diagnosis may include a pelvic exam, imaging studies, and a biopsy to confirm cancer and determine its stage.

Treatment depends on the stage of the disease and the individual patient’s needs. Options may include:

• Surgery for early-stage cervical cancer
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Combined treatments for more advanced disease

Care is often delivered through a multidisciplinary team to ensure personalized treatment planning and the best possible outcomes.

Support and Next Steps for Patients and Families

A cervical cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but patients and families do not have to face it alone. Support services such as counseling, care coordination, symptom management, and survivorship resources are essential parts of comprehensive cancer care.

If you or someone you care for has symptoms, abnormal screening results, or concerns about cervical cancer, early evaluation is critical. Prompt access to expert care can make a meaningful difference in outcomes and quality of life.