Cervical Cancer - What Causes It?

Unlike other pelvic cancers like uterine or ovarian cancer, the cervical cancer has a direct relation with the HPV infections. This is the most common sexually acquired infection in females, and can be avoided with safe sex practices. Sex with multiple partners or with a partner who has multiple partners are considered high risk for developing HPV. Preventing HPV infection is useful in prevention of developing cervical cancer..

When a woman is suspected to be at high risk for developing cervical cancer, then periodic screening with a Pap smear is advisable. This Pap smear which can be done as an outpatient involves scraping of the cervical tissue to identify abnormal growth. This is the single most method to detect cervical cancer early on and can help in complete recovery. Annual Pap smear is a must if a woman has had HPV infections during her lifetime.

Cervical cancer does not have any specific symptoms but include abnormal vaginal bleeding. This could include bleeding between periods, heavy menstruation, or irregular periods. There could also be vaginal discharge that is excessive and foul smelling. Sex can be very painful and could be followed by spotting. Being aware of symptoms of cervical cancer can help in early detection, which can lead to complete cure.

The ovarian and uterine cancers have a strong genetic component. However, the cervical cancer is not so. It is common in women with recurrent HPV infections, and almost all women with cervical cancer have a history of HPV in the past. Therefore, preventing of HPV infection is the single-most effective way of preventing cervical cancer. As the next level of prevention, women with high-risk sexual behaviour and recurrent HPV infections can also have periodic screening with Pap smears to check for abnormal growth. Annual Pap smear testing in women over 40 years is a great way to prevent and detect early cervical cancer.