As the owner of a cervix, it’s natural to worry about cervical cancer — a type of cancer that develops in the cervix, or lower part of the uterus. But here’s the good news: this is something you can take control of. With the right information and tools, you can be proactive about your health and hopefully rest a little easier. Cervical cancer is one of them more preventable cancers out there, thanks to things like vaccines and regular screenings.
If you’re here because you were recently diagnosed with HPV, take a deep breath. It’s incredibly common and doesn’t automatically mean you’ll develop cervical cancer. Most often, HPV self-explanatory without causing any problems.
However, we know that a diagnosis can raise many questions. So, let’s talk about HPV, its connection to cervical cancer, and the steps you can take to stay healthy. We’re here to provide you with the information you need to feel confident and empowered about your reproductive health.
What is the cervix?
The cervix is the lower end of your uterus, at the top of the vagina. You can think of it as the portal between your vagina and your uterus—if a typical portal were shaped like a soft, spongy donut. Your cervix allows blood to pass from the uterus into the vagina when you have your period, as well as sperm to swim into the fallopian tubes to fertilize an egg during conception. It is about 1-1.3 inches long.
“Cervical cancer is a condition where healthy cells in a woman’s cervix change and become cancerous – usually due to exposure to viruses over time,” CEO and founder of BasisDxAndreas M. Kogelnik, MD, PhD, tells FemmeFunn. In other words, cervical cancer occurs when a virus causes the natural cells in your cervix to become deformed or cancerous. We’ll see what this virus looks like in a moment.
How do you get cervical cancer?
Your cervix is made up of beautiful, lush cells. However, there are some external factors that, when introduced into your vaginal environment, can cause these cells to become cancerous.
Human papillomavirus is a very common sexually transmitted virus. There are 20 million new cases of HPV in the United States each year. Most people with HPV When develop cancer. HPV comes in two main types: “non-oncogenic,” which causes warts, and “oncogenic,” which can lead to cancer (emphasis on can, not will). Only about 13 high-risk types of HPV can cause cervical cancer, and some are also linked to cancers of the vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and some throat cancers. Most people don’t even know they have HPV, as the immune system usually clears the virus within two years. But if an oncogenic HPV infection takes hold, it can cause abnormal cell changes that can lead to cancer, especially of the cervix.
Other risk factors include:
- Smoking
- Family history of cervical cancer
- Long-term use of birth control pills
- Multiple term pregnancies
Signs of cervical cancer
Here’s why regular screenings are so important: Cervical cancer often develops without obvious symptoms, especially in the early stages. This is why staying on top of your views is key. It is the best way to catch any problems early, when they are most treatable.
“Cervical cancer can be asymptomatic or have symptoms such as pain during sex, vaginal bleeding, unusual discharge and, in severe cases, an abdominal mass,” says Dr. Kogelnik. “The best test for diagnosing cervical cancer is the Pap smear of the cervix,” she adds. “There are newer tests on the market, but none are as good as the Pap test. Scientists are working on tests for men and women to detect cervical cancer.”
Diagnosis & Control
Taking responsibility for your cervical health starts with being informed. Here’s a look at some of the tools your OB/GYN has to help you catch cervical cancer early:
Papanicolaou test: The Pap test is the tried and true method of detecting abnormal cells on your cervix. During the examination, the doctor will softly insert a small brush or swab into your vagina and collect a sample from your cervix. While no one necessarily looks forward to this, it shouldn’t be painful and only takes a few minutes. The cervical cells collected during the Pap test are then sent to a laboratory for examination. You will have your results in a few weeks.
HPV Test: Since the majority of cervical cancers start with HPV, you can be tested for the presence of high-risk HPV types. An HPV test is similar to a Pap test and can actually be done at the same time. A two-for-one deal, if you will.
Colposcopy & Biopsy: Sometimes, your Pap test will return abnormal results. Don’t worry – this means they need more tests, not that they’ve found cancer. The next step is usually a colposcopy, where a doctor will use a magnifying device to closely inspect your cervix. If they find any relevant cells or spots, they will do a biopsy. This is a small tissue sample that will be sent for further testing. A colposcopy can be a bit uncomfortable and you may experience some cramping that is similar to period cramps.
Treatment options
If cervical cancer is caught early, treatment options may include surgery (such as an ablation procedure to remove abnormal tissue) or radiation therapy combined with chemotherapy. Radiation therapy may also be used after surgery to target any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
In later stages, radiation therapy and chemotherapy are usually the main treatment approach. For advanced cervical cancer, chemotherapy may be used alone.
At any stage, a hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus) may be considered for prevention or treatment. It is important to understand that this procedure results in the inability to become pregnant.
A hysterectomy is an important decision, no doubt. You have to weigh the peace of mind that comes with eliminating the risk of cervical cancer against the impact it has on your ability to have children. It is very important to have an open and honest discussion with your doctor about this. They can help you consider your unique situation and what matters most to you.
Prevention is the key
Stopping cervical cancer before it progresses or even develops is largely within your control. Preventive measures such as regular check-ups and vaccinations keep the prognosis for cervical cancer manageable in the majority of cases. Consider whether you are up to date or should make an appointment for the following preventive steps.
Gardasil: The HPV vaccine
Gardasil it’s a common vaccination that protects you from harmful forms of HPV, so you’ll never have to worry about this virus turning into cancer. This clever little injection is highly effective, preventing up to 90% of HPV-related cervical and pelvic cancers if given before exposure.
The target age range for the Gardasil vaccine is 11 to 12 years for both boys and girls, but it can be given as early as age nine. If you are 15 years of age or older, three doses over the course of six months are recommended. Don’t worry if you haven’t had the Gardasil shot yet — it’s approved for adults up to 45 years of age. it is simply more effective when given before exposure to HPV.
Regular Shows
Say it with me now: “Papanicolaou test!” What causes HPV to develop into cancer is often uncontrolled cell changes. Adhering to regularly recommended screening guidelines, which means getting your Paps on time and getting tested for HPV when necessary, can make a difference in preventing cervical cancer. Check with your doctor if you’re curious about when to schedule a PAP.
When to see your doctor
For the most part, your annual appointment will ensure that you don’t have to make an emergency pitstop to your OB/GYN with unusual cervical-related symptoms. You can feel confident that they will likely detect, test and detect abnormal cells early. However, if you start to experience any of the following, it’s a sign that your appointment will be rushed:
- Vaginal bleeding outside of your cycle when you don’t have a period, especially after sex or after menopause
- Vaginal discharge that is watery, has a strong odor, or contains blood
- Pelvic pain or pain during sex
- Difficult or painful trips to the bathroom, either for #1 or #2
- Aches and pains. Think: Dull back pain, leg swelling, or abdominal pain
- Fatigue beyond what you are used to
The bottom line
TLDR: Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, and with the right steps, you can greatly reduce your risk.
“HPV is a major cause of cervical cancer, especially two strains, HPV16 and HPV18, which account for 90% of cases,” says Dr. Kogelnik. That said, it’s not guaranteed that you’ll get cancer from HPV — Dr. Kogelnik notes that these two strains make up about 70% worldwide.
So, if you’re currently dealing with a recent HPV diagnosis, know that this isn’t likely to worry you. Most strains of HPV will clear up on their own.
The best way to protect yourself moving forward is to attend these regular check-ups, get vaccinated and know your facts. By taking these steps, you can spot the signs of cervical cancer before it has a chance to develop.
