Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer develops in the cells of the lower part of the uterus, known as the cervix, and is one of the most common gynecological cancers worldwide. Among all cancers, it ranks 14th in terms of incidence. The most common cause of this type of cancer, which occurs in the area called the cervix, is the HPV virus. This sexually transmitted virus can remain in the body for a lifetime in some women and, over time, may lead to the activation of cancerous cells.

Below, we will address how to protect against cervical cancer, the diagnosis and treatment process, and other frequently asked questions. First, let’s discuss the symptoms that every woman should know well.

What Are the Symptoms of Cervical (Cervix) Cancer?

Cervical cancer may not present the same symptoms in every woman. Therefore, even if only one of the symptoms below is experienced, a gynecology and obstetrics specialist should be consulted. The most typical symptom of this cancer is vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse. Bleeding after menopause may also occur. In addition, the following symptoms may be seen:

• Pain in the pelvic region

• Prolonged menstrual periods

• Foul-smelling, watery vaginal discharge

• Vaginal discharge of an unusual color

• Pain during sexual intercourse and bleeding afterward

• Pain in the legs and swelling in the feet

• Increased duration of menstrual bleeding

• Unexplained weight loss

• Abdominal or back pain

• Constant feeling of fatigue

• Bone pain

• Loss of appetite

• Difficulty urinating

What Are the Symptoms of Cervical (Cervix) Cancer During Pregnancy?

Symptoms of cervical cancer do not differ during pregnancy. All of the symptoms listed above are also valid for pregnant women. If these symptoms are experienced during pregnancy, you should inform your doctor about your complaints.

Cervical Cancer Vaccine

A special vaccine has been developed for cervical cancer caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Known as the cervical cancer vaccine or HPV vaccine, it is especially recommended for women who are sexually active or have multiple partners. There is no upper age limit for this vaccine, and it is important that all women aged 9 and above receive it.

What Are the Causes of Cervical (Cervix) Cancer?

At its core, cervical cancer is caused by mutations in the DNA of healthy cells. Mutation disrupts the cell cycle and causes uncontrolled cell growth. This abnormal increase in cells leads to tumor formation. Studies have shown that HPV is found in nearly 99% of women diagnosed with cervical cancer. For this reason, HPV is considered the primary cause of cervical cancer.

This virus, which can also cause genital warts, is easily transmitted through oral, vaginal, or anal intercourse. It can also cause warts in the mouth. There are more than 100 types of HPV, but HPV-16 and HPV-18 are the types responsible for cervical cancer and are classified as high-risk HPV types. However, cervical cancer is not caused solely by HPV. Factors such as tobacco use, early onset of sexual activity, and immune system disorders can also contribute.

Types of Cervical (Cervix) Cancer

Cervical cancer generally has three main types:

• Squamous cell carcinoma

• Adenocarcinoma

• Adenosquamous carcinoma

What Are the Risk Factors for Cervical (Cervix) Cancer?

Not every woman with these risk factors will develop cervical cancer, but being informed about them is important.

• HPV infection

• Tobacco use

• Weakened immune system

• History of chlamydia infection

• Obesity

• Diet low in fruits and vegetables

• Family history of cervical cancer

How Can Cervical (Cervix) Cancer Be Prevented?

All women are advised to follow these measures to reduce the risk of cervical cancer:

• Do not neglect routine gynecological check-ups

• Have regular Pap smear tests

• Get the HPV (cervical cancer) vaccine

• Avoid tobacco products

• Maintain a strong immune system

• Follow a healthy and balanced diet

• Avoid being overweight

• Take precautions against sexually transmitted diseases

How Is Cervical (Cervix) Cancer Diagnosed?

Pap smear test results are very important in diagnosis, and this test should be performed if the patient presents with certain complaints. In suspicious cases, advanced tests are required for a cervical cancer diagnosis. A tissue sample is taken via needle biopsy or endocervical curettage and sent for pathological examination. Based on the results, a diagnosis is made and the most appropriate treatment is initiated as soon as possible.

Stages of Cervical Cancer

Staging is based on how far the cancer has spread. Cervical cancer has four stages:

Stage 1

The tumor is still small but may have spread to nearby lymph nodes.

Stage 2

The cancer tissue is larger and has spread beyond the cervix to surrounding tissues or lymph nodes.

Stage 3

The cancer has spread to the lower part of the vagina or the groin region and may cause urinary tract obstruction in some patients.

Stage 4

The cancer has spread beyond the reproductive organs to organs such as the bones, lungs, or liver.

What Are the Treatment Methods for Cervical Cancer?

Treatment is planned based on many factors, including the stage of cancer and the patient’s overall health. Surgical removal of the cancerous tissue is essential. A single treatment method or a combination of methods may be used. After surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or both may be applied. In advanced stages, combined radiotherapy and chemotherapy may be necessary.

How Is the Cervical (Cervix) Cancer Test Performed?

The test commonly referred to as the cervical cancer test is the Pap smear test. An HPV test should also be performed. This allows early detection of potential cancer and prompt initiation of treatment. The Pap smear is done by taking a swab from the vaginal area and does not cause pain or discomfort.

Cervical Cancer Screening

Regular Pap smear testing is essential for cervical cancer screening. Screening should begin at age 21 and follow these intervals:

• Ages 21–29: Pap smear once a year

• Ages 30–65: Pap smear every 3 years and HPV test every 5 years

• Over age 65: Screening may be discontinued if there have been no abnormalities in the last 10 years

Cervical Cancer Surgeries

Removal of Only the Cancerous Area

In this procedure, only the cancerous portion of the cervix is removed in a cone-shaped excision. No other areas are affected. This technique is often preferred for women who plan future pregnancies.

Removal of the Cervix

Known as trachelectomy, this surgery removes the cervix and some surrounding tissues. It is performed only in early-stage cancer cases.

Removal of the Cervix and Uterus

This procedure is called a hysterectomy and involves removal of both the cervix and the uterus.

Cervical Cancer Treatment Centers in Ankara

There are many healthcare institutions in Ankara that provide cervical cancer treatment. You may contact us to request an appointment. You can also write your questions about cervical cancer in the comments section.

What Is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cervix and can spread to other areas. It is one of the most common gynecological cancers among women. When detected early, it is generally a treatable cancer.

Cervical cancer usually develops slowly and may not cause symptoms for many years. If not diagnosed in time, it can spread to other organs. Therefore, regular cervical examinations and Pap smear tests are very important.

The most common cause of cervical cancer is HPV infection. HPV is a sexually transmitted virus with certain types that can lead to cervical cancer. Other risk factors include early sexual activity, multiple births, smoking, and immune system problems.

Symptoms and Causes of Cervical Cancer

In the early stages, cervical cancer usually does not cause symptoms. As the disease progresses, the following symptoms may occur:

• Vaginal bleeding (especially after intercourse or after menopause)

• Abnormal vaginal discharge

• Painful intercourse

• Lower back pain

• Abdominal pain

• Difficulty urinating

The most common cause is HPV infection. Other risk factors include:

• Early sexual activity

• Multiple births

• Smoking

• Immune system disorders

• Long-term use of birth control pills

• Other sexually transmitted infections

How Is Cervical Cancer Diagnosed?

Regular check-ups are essential for early diagnosis. Diagnostic methods include:

• Pap Smear Test: Detects early cellular changes in the cervix

• Colposcopy: Allows close examination of suspicious areas and biopsy if needed

• Biopsy: Confirms diagnosis by examining tissue samples

• Imaging Tests: CT, MRI, or PET scans to determine cancer spread and stage

Early diagnosis significantly increases treatment success.

Cervical Cancer Treatment Methods

Treatment depends on the stage of cancer, general health, and patient preferences. Methods include:

Surgical Treatment

• Simple hysterectomy

• Radical hysterectomy

• Trachelectomy

Radiotherapy

• External beam radiotherapy

• Internal radiotherapy (brachytherapy)

Chemotherapy

• Chemotherapy alone

• Combined chemoradiotherapy

Targeted Therapies

• Monoclonal antibody therapies

• Tyrosine kinase inhibitors

Treatment is individualized. Surgery is preferred in early stages, while combined chemotherapy and radiotherapy are often used in advanced stages. Targeted therapies have also become increasingly important in recent years.