10/10/2026
Cervical Cancer: Causes, Signs & Management
Cervical cancer develops in the cells of the cervix, and most cases are linked to persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). Early cervical cancer may cause no symptoms, which is why screening and HPV vaccination are so important.
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🟣 High-Risk HPV
➟ Persistent infection with high-risk HPV types is the main cause of cervical cancer
➟ HPV is very common, and most infections clear naturally
➟ Cancer risk increases when a high-risk infection persists over many years
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🟣 Smoking
➟ Smoking increases the risk of cervical precancer and cervical cancer
➟ Tobacco-related chemicals can impair local immune defence and contribute to cell damage
➟ Stopping smoking can reduce future risk
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🟣 Weakened Immunity
➟ People with weakened immune systems are more likely to have persistent HPV infection
➟ Risk may be higher with HIV infection or long-term immunosuppressive treatment
➟ These patients may need closer screening follow-up
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🟣 Missed Screening
➟ Cervical screening can detect high-risk HPV and precancerous cell changes before cancer develops
➟ Missing recommended screening can allow abnormal changes to progress unnoticed
➟ Screening schedules differ between the US and UK, so follow your local programme or clinician’s advice
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🟣 Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
➟ Bleeding may occur between periods, after s*x, or after menopause
➟ Periods may also become heavier or last longer than usual
➟ Any bleeding after menopause should be medically assessed
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🟣 Unusual Vaginal Discharge
➟ Persistent discharge may become watery, blood-stained, or unusually unpleasant-smelling
➟ Discharge alone is not specific for cancer and can have many other causes
➟ Persistent unexplained changes should be checked
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🟣 Pelvic or Lower Abdominal Pain
➟ Persistent pelvic discomfort can occur as cervical cancer becomes more advanced
➟ Pain may be dull, aching, or pressure-like
➟ Many non-cancerous conditions can also cause pelvic pain
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🟣 Pain
