Cervical cancer
Early cervical cancers and pre cancerous cell changes don't usually have symptoms.
Not everyone diagnosed with cervical cancer will have symptoms. That's why it's important to attend regular cervical screening.
The most common symptoms of cervical cancer include:
unusual vaginal bleeding
pain or discomfort during sex
vaginal discharge
pain in the area between the hip bones (pelvis)
Get tips on seeing your GP about your symptoms
Pre cancerous cell changes do not have any symptoms. The cervical screening programme aims to pick these changes up and prevent cancer from developing in the first place.
Last reviewed: 06 Sept 2023
Next review due: 06 Sept 2026
You usually start by seeing your GP if you have symptoms that could be due to cervical cancer. Your doctor will then decide whether to do tests or refer you to a specialist.
Cervical cancer is when abnormal cells in the lining of the cervix grow uncontrollably and eventually form a growth (tumour).
Cervical screening uses HPV primary screening. The cervical cells are first of all tested for the HPV virus. If high risk HPV is found, the laboratory will test the sample for cell changes.
The stage of a cancer tells you about its size and whether it has spread. The type means the type of cell the cancer started from. The grade means how abnormal the cells look under the microscope.
Your treatment depends on several factors. These include what type of cervical cancer you have, how big it is, whether it has spread (the stage) and the grade. It also depends on your general health.
There are several possible risks and causes of cervical cancer, including human papilloma virus (HPV), which is a major cause.
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