People with early stages of cervical cancer or pre-cancer usually do not have symptoms. It is not until the cancer grows that symptoms become more noticeable.
However, your doctor may be able to see early signs of cervical cancer, including irregular cells that can be detected with a Pap test, during your regular gynecological exam. Talk to your doctor about how often you should be screened, based on your age and other risk factors, such as a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
Other symptoms of cervical cancer can include:
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Pain in the pelvic area
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding, including after sex, after menopause or between your regular periods
These symptoms also can be caused by conditions other than cervical cancer. If you experience any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor to determine their cause and begin a treatment plan that’s appropriate for you.
If you have been diagnosed with cervical cancer, Penn Medicine offers the most advanced surgical and nonsurgical treatment options for your specific cancer.