About Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the cervix. The cervix is the lower, narrow end of the uterus (the hollow, pear-shaped organ where a fetus grows). The cervix leads from the uterus to the vagina (birth canal).
Cervical cancer usually develops slowly over time. Before cancer appears in the cervix, the cells of the cervix go through changes known as dysplasia, in which abnormal cells begin to appear in the cervical tissue. Over time, the abnormal cells may become cancer cells and start to grow and spread more deeply into the cervix and to surrounding areas. Cervical cancer in children is rare.
Symptoms and Risk Factors of Cervical Cancer
Symptoms of cervical cancer can include:
- Vaginal bleeding (including bleeding after sexual intercourse)
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Pelvic pain
- Pain during sexual intercourse
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the major risk factor for cervical cancer. Older age is a main risk factor for most cancers. The chance of getting cancer increases as you get older.
General Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer:
- Being infected with human papillomavirus (HPV); this is the most important risk factor for cervical cancer
- Being exposed to the drug DES (diethylstilbestrol) while in the mother's womb
Women With HPV Infection:
- Giving birth to many children
- Smoking cigarettes
Risk Factors That Increase Risk of HPV Infection
Having a weakened immune system caused by immunosuppression. Immunosuppression weakens the body’s ability to fight infections and other diseases. The body's ability to fight HPV infection may be lowered by long-term immunosuppression from:
- Being infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
- Taking medicine to help prevent organ rejection after a transplant
- Being sexually active at a young age
- Having many sexual partners
Cervical Cancer Experts You Can Count On
When you or someone you love is facing cervical cancer, we put our medical knowledge and concerned hearts to work, supporting you with everything we’ve got. Our experienced oncologists treat this unique cancer with the utmost expertise and compassion, and will design a well-rounded treatment plan with your whole health in mind.
Find Us in Your Community
Across the nation, each of our locations offering cancer treatment contributes to the strength of the AdventHealth Cancer Institute network. Explore your options for care close to home with the guidance of our dedicated team. We’ll help you find the right fit, so you’re in the best setting to get the care you need.