Cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects the uterus with the vagina. Cervical Cancer affects the cells in the cervix. Cervical cancer or cancer of cervix is caused by the Human Papiloma Virus (HPV). Cervical cancer contributes to approximately 16.5% of total cancer cases in India. It is the second most common cancer after breast cancer in women in India. The best part about cervical cancer is that it can be prevented through precautions and vaccination. The most common reason for the cervical cancer in India is unprotected sex with multiple partners. However it has to be noted that not every female with HPV will have cervical cancer. It is caused by HPV-16 and HPV-18 strands only. Other factors that may cause cervical cancer include smoking, multiple pregnancies, getting sexually active at very early age. HPV can affect both males and females i.e. if either of them are having unprotected sex with multiple sex partners.
Unfortunately the symptoms of cervical cancer are not evident at early stage that is why most of the females who develop cervical cancer are diagnosed at a later stage which makes it really difficult to be treated. However if you have any of the following symptoms then you should discuss with Dr Radha Agartaniya or a gynaecologist:
- Unusual heavy bleeding during periods
- Spotting between periods
- Bleeding after menopause
- Vaginal discharge with foul smell
- Lower abdomen pain
- Painful sexual intercourse
- Vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse
The presence of these signs doesn't really mean that you have cervical cancer but it should be alarming enough to consult a good gynaecologist.
At Matritva Clinic in Greater Noida we have a strong well women program with Dr Radha Agartaniya at the helm of affairs. The program aims at prevention rather than treatment. The easiest way to keep a track on any such kind of problem is to get regular pap smear test done. It is an opd procedure and checks for any cervical cancer cells or HPV. Cervical Cancer vaccination is part of the program. As per Dr Radha Agataniya gynaecologist at Matritva Clinic, Greater Noida, cervical cancer vaccination would be given at an age of 11 to 12 years. It has to be noted that vaccination will not work in females who already have contracted the disease but will prevent any new infection to happen. It is important to keep in mind that cervical cancer is preventable with vaccination. Three dosage of the vaccine are needed as a part of the complete course of vaccination.
