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About 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. This type of cancer is normally slow growing and may be prevented with the detection and treatment of early abnormal cell changes.
Before cervical cancer develops, the cells of the cervix start to change and become abnormal. These abnormal cells are precancerous, meaning they are not cancer. Precancerous changes to the cervix are called dysplasia of the cervix (or cervical dysplasia) and are usually caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV) passed through sexual activity. Dysplasia of the cervix is a common precancerous change that can develop into cancer if it isn’t treated. It is important to know that the majority of people with dysplasia do not develop cancer.
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.
Reducing the risk of cervical cancer
You can lower your risk of developing cervical cancer by:
- screening regularly with Pap 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
Resources
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Screening for cervical cancer.
Learn how screening and immunization can help prevent cervical cancer.
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Pap test clinics
Where you can access Pap tests across the province.