Cervical Cancer: Screening, Symptoms, and Prevention You Should Know

Cervical Cancer: Screening, Symptoms, and Prevention You Should Know

 

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women. According to the National Cancer Institute of Thailand, it is the second most common cancer among Thai women, following breast cancer.

 

Early detection through regular screening is the most effective way to identify the disease at an early stage and begin timely treatment.

 

Cervical Cancer Screening Methods

 

1. Pap Smear Test

The Pap smear is a widely used screening method that detects abnormal cervical cells that may develop into cancer.

 

However, it may sometimes produce false-negative results due to:

๐ Overlapping cells

๐ Blood or mucus contamination

๐ Limited sample clarity under microscopic examination

 

2. Liquid-Based Cytology (LBC)

 

Also known as:

๐ ThinPrep Pap Test

๐ Cy-Prep

 

This method:

๐ Collects clearer and more complete cell samples

๐ Improves accuracy in detecting early-stage cancer cells

๐ Reduces the chance of inconclusive results

 

Warning Signs: When to See a Doctor

 

Seek medical attention if you experience:

๐ Vaginal bleeding after intercourse or between periods

๐ Heavier or prolonged menstruation

๐ Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss

๐ Abnormal vaginal discharge (watery, thick, mucus-like, pus-like, or blood-stained, with or without odor)

๐ Blood in urine or stool (in advanced stages)

๐ Pelvic pain, difficulty urinating, or bowel movement issues

๐ Swelling in the legs (possible lymph node involvement)

 

Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer

You may have a higher risk if you:

๐ Had sexual activity before age 17

๐ Have multiple sexual partners (or partner has multiple partners)

๐ Have had more than 3 pregnancies

๐ Have weakened immunity (e.g., HIV/AIDS or long-term immunosuppressive therapy)

๐ Have a history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as syphilis, herpes, gonorrhea

๐ Have never undergone cervical screening

๐ Use oral contraceptives for more than 10 years

๐ Smoke

 

 

How to Prevent Cervical Cancer

 

๐ Avoid high-risk behaviors (early sexual activity, multiple partners, smoking)

๐ Get vaccinated against HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

๐ Best given before sexual activity begins

๐ Undergo regular cervical cancer screening

 

How to Prepare for a Cervical Exam

 

Before your appointment:

๐ Clean external genital area with mild soap

๐ Wear clothing that is easy to remove

๐ Avoid exercise before the exam

๐ Avoid sexual intercourse prior to screening

๐ Do not douche or use vaginal cleansing products

๐ Do not insert medication into the vagina

๐ Avoid scheduling during menstruation

 

What If Your Results Are Abnormal?

 

If screening results are abnormal, your doctor may recommend further evaluation using:

 

Colposcopy

 

Colposcopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a magnifying instrument with light to closely examine:

๐ Cervix

๐ Vagina

๐ Vulva

๐ Anal area

A special solution is applied to highlight abnormal tissues. If suspicious areas are found, a biopsy (tissue sample) may be taken for further analysis.

 

Indications for Colposcopy

 

Colposcopy may be recommended if:

๐ Abnormal results from Pap smear or ThinPrep test

๐ Visible abnormalities on the cervix (e.g., lesions or masses)

๐ Unexplained abnormal vaginal bleeding

๐ Persistent abnormal discharge

๐ Suspicious lesions in the vaginal or vulvar area

 

Procedure and Aftercare

 

During the Procedure

๐ The patient lies in a lithotomy position (on the back with legs supported)

๐ A speculum is inserted to open the vaginal canal

๐ The cervix is cleaned and examined

๐ A biopsy may be taken if abnormalities are found

๐ Bleeding is controlled using cotton, medication, or cauterization

 

After the Procedure

๐ Avoid sexual intercourse

๐ Avoid inserting anything into the vagina (including tampons)

๐ Allow approximately 7-10 days for healing

 

Conclusion

 

Cervical cancer is preventable and treatable when detected early. Regular screening, HPV vaccination, and awareness of symptoms are key to protecting women’s health.

 

 

 

 

 

Source : Bangphai Hospital

**Translated and compiled by ArokaGO Content Team