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Cervical Cancer

A largely preventable cancer thanks to HPV vaccination and regular Pap testing.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Onkoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is a malignant tumor arising from the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. Nearly all cervical cancers are linked to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. With HPV vaccination and regular Pap (smear) testing, this cancer can be largely prevented or detected at the earliest stage.

HPV is a very common sexually transmitted virus. Most HPV infections clear spontaneously; however, persistent infection with certain high-risk types (especially HPV 16 and 18) can lead to cervical cancer over time. This process can take decades and pre-cancerous changes (CIN) can be detected by smear testing.

Cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide, but mortality can be sharply reduced through expanded screening programs. Every sexually active woman is strongly advised to undergo regular Pap testing and complete HPV vaccination.

Symptoms

Vaginal bleeding during or after intercourse
Vaginal bleeding outside the menstrual cycle
Postmenopausal vaginal bleeding
Abnormal vaginal discharge (foul-smelling, watery, or bloody)
Pelvic pain
Pain on urination or defecation (advanced stage)
Leg swelling (advanced stage, lymph node obstruction)

Risk Factors

Persistent infection with HPV 16 and 18
Irregular Pap testing follow-up
Smoking
Multiple sexual partners
Immunosuppressive conditions (including HIV/AIDS)
Long-term oral contraceptive use
History of Chlamydia infection

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Vaginal bleeding after intercourse or outside the menstrual cycle
  • Postmenopausal vaginal bleeding (urgent evaluation)
  • Abnormal or foul-smelling vaginal discharge
  • First Pap test starting at age 21 (or 3 years after becoming sexually active)
  • HPV vaccination if not previously vaccinated, in the appropriate age group

Treatment Methods

01
Conization/LEEP: for early-stage or pre-cancerous lesions
02
Radical hysterectomy + pelvic lymph node dissection: for early invasive cancer
03
Concurrent chemoradiotherapy (cisplatin + radiotherapy): for locally advanced disease
04
Brachytherapy: combined with external beam radiotherapy
05
Bevacizumab-containing chemotherapy: for advanced or recurrent disease
06
Immunotherapy: pembrolizumab (in PD-L1-positive or MSI-H tumors)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Onkoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.