Ovulation pains? Think again

A World Health Organization (WHO) report stated that cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide and accounted for 7.6 million deaths (around 13% of all deaths) in 2008. Moreover, cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer death among women in low-income countries. Isn't it interesting, and somewhat unfortunate, how we ignore some statistics and valuable information until someone close to our hearts gets directly affected by it?

Recently I have taken the time to find out more about cancer, specifically cervical cancer, due to recent personal events in my life. With cervical cancer being a leading cause of cancer death among women, I think women should pay more attention to this disease and research more about it, its early signs and symptoms, causes and treatment options. It was surprising and upsetting to discover that some women may never even experience symptoms until the disease has progressed significantly, which is why it is imperative that women make it a habit to have a pap smear or pay a visit to their Gynaecologist regularly.

Cervical cancer occurs when the cells of the cervix change in a way that leads to abnormal growth and invasion of other tissues or organs of the body. The exact causes of cervical cancer remain unknown but certain risk factors are believed to have an effect. These include previous infection with humanpapillomavirus (HPV), early sexual contact, multiple sexual partners, cigarette smoking, and taking oral contraceptives (birth control pills).

Cervical cancer symptoms vary from woman to woman. While some women experience no symptoms at all, others may experience severe cervical cancer symptoms. Keep in mind that these symptoms are also symptoms of many other illnesses, therefore experiencing some of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have cervical cancer, but it’s always advisable to be on the safe side! So if you experience any of the symptoms listed below, please call your doctor immediately and make an appointment. Make sure to write down the symptoms that you have been experiencing which may help guide the doctor in determining the severity of the situation and making a proper diagnosis.

 SYMPTOMS:

• Persistent pelvic pain unrelated to other conditions, menstruation, or physical exertion,
• Some women with cervical cancer may experience pain during vaginal intercourse,
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding is the most commonly experienced cervical cancer symptom,
• A vaginal discharge is a common symptom related to many women's conditions. In advanced cervical cancer, a vaginal discharge may be present and may or may not have an odour,
• Bladder pain or pain during urination can be a symptom of advanced cervical cancer. This cervical cancer symptom usually occurs when cancer has spread to the bladder.

If you know anyone who may be experiencing these symptoms, please encourage them to book an appointment with a doctor immediately – you could be saving a sister; you could be saving a life.