Cervical cancer is a slow-growing cancer. It may even take 15-20 years to show symptoms. The early symptoms are usually not apparent. The symptoms, however, flare up as the cancer cells begin to proliferate. The common symptoms include

• Bleeding after sexual intercourse
• Bleeding between normal periods
• Vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odour
• Pain during sex

HPV infection is the common cause of cervical cancer in women. The infection is largely transmitted through sexual intercourse. The other causes are:

• Poor immunity
• Smoking
• Age

The treatment strategy for cervical cancer depends on the stage and type of cancer, age, and overall health of the patient. Surgery is usually the mainstay of cancer. This is combined with chemotherapy radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.

Cancer surgery may cause damage to the eggs and alter hormone levels. This may result in loss of fertility. Before starting the treatment, the doctor will discuss plans with you. In case you are planning a baby, the doctor will make sure to preserve your fertility before starting the treatment.

• Surgery: Surgery will be performed to remove the tumor, cervix, cervix and uterus depending on the stage and severity of the cancer.
• Radiation therapy: High-energy X-rays will be used to destroy cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: High doses of anti-cancer drugs will be administered to destroy cancer cells. In some cases, chemotherapy is combined with radiation therapy to remove cells from the body
• Targeted therapy: Certain drugs will be administered to target specific protein particles in the cancerous cells. This therapy is considered in the chances of relapse