Get tested for cancer at 18 you wonder! Cervical cancer strikes you young and there are no symptoms that indicate its presence. It is the second most common cancer among women worldwide.
Take a look at what cervical cancer is and how regular checkups can be a preventive measure.
Cervical Cancer
The cervix is the lower portion of the uterus. Cervical cancer develops in the layer that covers the cervix, and then spreads to the surrounding tissue if undetected.
There are no apparent signs in the early stages that signal the onset of this cancer. However after the cancer has spread to the tissue, you may notice some of these symptoms.
- Continuous white discharge
- Bleeding between your menstrual cycle
- Persistent leg pains
- Bleeding after sexual intercourse
- Pelvic pain
- Blood in urine
- Blood in stool
If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.
Whom Does It Affect
Any woman who is sexually active at a young age, has early and multiple pregnancies, has multiple sexual partners and has intercourse with someone who has multiple sexual partners is at risk.
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted virus with various strains. Some of these strains cause cervical cancer. Besides sexual transmission, HPV can also be bred by the body in case of a lack of personal hygiene.
Dr. Chetna Bakshi says that certain studies have found that there is a higher incidence of this virus among women from lower socio-economic strata. However, remember that all women stand the risk of contracting it at some point.
You can protect yourself from HPV by practising safe sex and maintaining personal hygiene.
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