Cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is cancer of the cervix, which is part of the female reproductive organs, found at the bottom of the uterus (womb) leading into the vagina (genital opening). Most people who develop this type of cancer have had an infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a very common virus that spreads through close sexual contact. However, having HPV does not mean you will get cervical cancer. There are many different types of HPV that can infect the cervix, but only some types can cause changes to cells that may turn into cancer over time.  

Cervical cancer can be present without feeling any symptoms. Sometimes, the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer can also be caused by other health conditions. Common signs include: 

• abnormal vaginal bleeding (between periods or after sexual intercourse)
• pain during sexual intercourse
• clear watery discharge from the vagina
• increased amount of discharge from the vagina
• foul-smelling discharge from the vagina

If you have any of these warning signs for cervical cancer, please see a primary health-care provider.

Some things can affect your risk, or chance, of developing cancer. You can lower your risk of developing cervical cancer by:

• screening regularly with HPV tests
• getting the HPV vaccine
• practicing safer sex  
• not smoking
• maintaining a healthy lifestyle

If you have any questions or concerns about cervical cancer, speak with a primary health-care provider or visit cancer.ca