In 2017, the American Cancer Society reported that almost 13,000 new cases of cervical cancer were registered. Out of all the cases registered, it was seen that about 4,200 women died from it. Cervical cancer is known to be one of the most prevalent cancers observed in women. However, over the last 40 years, it has also been noticed that the number of deaths resulting from the case of cervical cancer has reduced by over 50%. This is due to the improvement of awareness about the situation and the increased use of HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccination and pap test.

In addition, understanding the various warning signs of this condition can be of great help. The sooner that the condition gets diagnosed, the easier it would be for the condition to be cured and the patient to heal from the condition. Hence, keeping an eye out for the warning signs is important. In this article, we discuss the most prominent early warning signs and symptoms of cervical cancer.

Foul Smell and Vaginal discharge
In the cases where oxygen depletion occurs in the areas of cervical cancer, cells present in the area may die. This would further infect the tumor. The infection caused in the area could lead to a foul-smelling vaginal discharge. This can be considered to be a warning sign of cervical cancer. The continuous discharge noticed has several signs. It would be watery, brown, pale, or can also be mixed with blood.

Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
This is known to be the most common symptom of cervical cancer. This kind of bleeding might occur when the tumor has spread to the tissue nearby. It is important that when any bleeding happens that doesn’t seem normal, a doctor should be consulted immediately. Neglecting the situation by passing it off as a simple spotting is not advisable. Women should consider consulting the doctor if they observe longer menstrual periods, bleeding between menstrual periods, heavier menstrual periods, bleeding occurs after menopause, bleeding after a pelvic exam, bleeding after sexual intercourse, or if bleeding results in anemia and further leads to dizziness or fatigue.

Pain in the Pelvis, Lower Back and Appendix
If the individual notices any pain in the pelvic region or the lower back, then the problem caused could be associated with reproductive organs like the cervix. One of the most characteristic early warning signs and symptoms of cervical cancer is pelvic pain. If the condition is noticed continuously, then it could be a stronger sign of cervical cancer. However, there might be other symptoms indicating cervical cancer that occur before pelvic pain is noticed.

Leg Pain
Once the tumor advances slightly, it may result in pressing against the nerves present in the pelvic wall. This can result in leg pain and may also eventually cause swelling. However, swelling is one of the most normal symptoms that occur through several other medical conditions. If the swelling is accompanied by leg pain, then this could be considered as a warning sign of cervical cancer.

These early warning signs and symptoms of cervical cancer must be taken seriously and should be treated immediately.