Cervical cancer used to be the number one cause of death for women—that is, until Dr. George Papanicolaou introduced the Pap test in the 1940s. This simple test, which collects cells from the cervix and analyzes them under a microscope, has succeeded in reducing the death rate from cervical cancer by more than 50 percent.
The good news is that regular screening and follow-up care can prevent most deaths from cervical cancer. Even better, you can get screened at no cost to you. The health care reform act covers cervical cancer screenings, part of a "well-woman visit."
Rarely seen in women younger than 20, cervical cancer most commonly occurs in midlife. Yet, many older women don't realize the risk still exists as they age. In fact, more than 15 percent of cervical cancer cases occur in women over 65.
Although the death rate has dropped considerably, women are still dying of the disease.
What's equally important is for you to be aware of the warning signs of cervical cancer, which may not cause any symptoms at first (when they are pre-cancers or early cancers), but later on, may affect you with pelvic pain or vaginal bleeding.
Below are the signs of cervical cancer:
1). Bleeding after intercourse
2). Bleeding after menopause
3). Bleeding between periods
4). Bleeding after douching
5). Bleeding following a pelvic exam
6). Having heavier menstrual periods than usual or ones that last longer than usual
7). Unusual vaginal discharge
8). Pain during sex
9). Pelvic pain
Of course, just because you have any of these symptoms doesn't necessarily mean you have cervical cancer. The symptoms could be caused by other conditions, like an infection. But it's wise to schedule an appointment with your health care professional to get checked and, if appropriate, get treated.
