What is cervical cancer?

When cancer starts in the cervix, it is called cervical cancer. The cervix is the lower, narrow end of the uterus. The cervix connects the vagina to the upper part of the uterus.

Who gets cervical cancer?

Although all are at risk, it occurs most often in women over age 30. The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main cause of cervical cancer. HPV is a common virus that is passed from one person to another during sex. At least half of sexually active people will have HPV at some point in their lives, but few women will get cervical cancer.

What are the symptoms?

Early on, cervical cancer may not cause signs and symptoms. Advanced cervical cancer may cause bleeding after sex or discharge from the vagina that is not normal for you. They may be caused by something other than cancer, but the only way to know is to see your doctor.

What raises a woman’s chance of getting cervical cancer?

Almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV. There are many types of HPV. Usually HPV will go away on its own, but if it does not, it may cause cervical cancer over time.

These things also can increase your risk of cervical cancer:

• Having HIV or another condition that makes it hard for  your body to fight off health problems.
• Using birth control pills for a long time (five or more years).
• Having given birth to three or more children.
• Smoking. How can I prevent cervical cancer?
• Get the HPV vaccine – GARDASIL. It protects against the  types of HPV that most often cause cervical, vaginal, and  vulvar cancers. It is given in a series of three shots. The  vaccine is recommended for 9 to 26 year old Females and  Males as well.
• See your doctor regularly for a  Pap test that can find cervical  pre cancers.
• Follow up with your doctor, if your Pap test results are not normal.
• Limit number of sexual partners.
• Use condoms during sex.
• Don’t smoke.

Information provided by: National Cervical Cancer Coalition