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Doctoury
May 222 min read

Cervical Cancer Types, Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatments, and Prevention

Cervical Cancer Causes Symptoms Diagnosis Treatments

Cervical cancer is a significant health issue affecting women worldwide. It originates in the cells lining the

cervix—the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. This blog explores the various aspects of cervical cancer, including its types, causes, symptoms, diagnostic procedures, treatment options, and effective prevention strategies. Our goal is to empower women with knowledge to manage and prevent this disease effectively.





Cervical cancer occurs when abnormal cells on the cervix grow out of control. The cervix is crucial for various reproductive functions, including the passage of menstrual flow from the uterus and the direct pathway for sperm to enter the uterus during conception.



There are primarily two types of cervical cancer:

  1. Squamous Cell Carcinoma: This type accounts for about 90% of cases and begins in the thin, flat cells lining the outer part of the cervix, which faces the vagina.

  2. Adenocarcinoma: Making up about 10% of cases, this type starts in the mucus-producing glandular cells of the cervical canal.



Infographic illustrating various aspects of cervical cancer, including types such as squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma, risk factors like HPV and smoking, common symptoms such as abnormal bleeding and pelvic pain, diagnosis methods including Pap smear and HPV DNA tests, treatment options like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, and prevention strategies involving HPV vaccination and regular screenings.
Cervical Cancer This detailed visual guide covers everything from the types of cervical cancer, risk factors, and symptoms, to diagnosis methods, treatment options, and preventive measures



The primary cause of cervical cancer is a persistent infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Other risk factors include:

  • Multiple sexual partners

  • Early sexual activity

  • Other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

  • A weakened immune system

  • Smoking



In its early stages, cervical cancer typically presents no symptoms. As the cancer progresses, women may notice:

  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding

  • Unusual vaginal discharge

  • Pain during intercourse

  • Pelvic pain



Early detection plays a crucial role in the successful treatment of cervical cancer. Diagnostic methods include:

  • Pap Smear Test: Screening cells from the cervix for abnormalities.

  • HPV DNA Test: Detecting HPV infection that may lead to cervical cancer.

  • Biopsy: Taking a small sample of cervical tissue to examine under a microscope.




Treatment depends on the stage of cancer, the size of the tumor, the patient's age, and overall health. Common treatments include:

  • Surgery (to remove the cancer or cervix)

  • Radiation therapy

  • Chemotherapy

  • Targeted therapy



Preventive measures are critical in reducing the risk of cervical cancer:

  • HPV vaccination

  • Regular cervical screening tests (Pap tests)

  • Practicing safe sex

  • Quitting smoking



Cervical cancer remains a prevalent issue, but with effective screening, vaccination, and awareness, it is preventable and treatable. Women are encouraged to participate in regular screening, get vaccinated against HPV, and adopt healthy lifestyle choices to reduce their risk of this disease. By staying informed and proactive, we can significantly decrease the incidence of cervical cancer and improve outcomes for women globally.

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