Cervical Cancer
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer begins in the cervix which is the lower portion of a woman's uterus connected to her vagina. Cancerous cells on the cervix's surface are where the majority of cervical cancers start. Women can develop cancer between the ages of 20 and 65 years old.
In the past, women's deaths from cervical cancer were among the most common. However, since screening tests became readily accessible, things have changed. The HPV vaccine has also helped decrease the number of patients over the years.
Cervical cancer treatment in Southwest Florida
Regardless of which part of Florida you are traveling from the Naples, Bonita Springs, Estero, Cape Coral, Fort Myers, and Port Charlotte area the Lee Health Regional Cancer Center is here to help guide you through the next steps to treatment. To learn more, call the facility at 239-343-9500
What are the symptoms of cervical cancer?
Because cervical cancer typically doesn't present symptoms until later stages, many women with the disease are unaware of their condition when it first arises. When symptoms do emerge, they might easily be confused with common diseases like menstruation and urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Typical cervical cancer symptoms are:
- Unusual bleeding, such as between cycles, after sex, or after menopause
- Vaginal discharge that appears or smells different
- Pelvic pain that makes urinating painful
How often should I get a cervical cancer screening?
Women should be screened every three years with a Pap test and every five years with HPV testing. Women with certain risk factors may need more frequent screening. Talk with your doctor about a cervical cancer screening if you suspect symptoms.
What are the risk factors?
The CDC has reported almost all cervical cancers are caused by the HPV virus. It is important to note that not every HPV infection is destined to become cervical cancer. It is transmitted from sex and usually does not show symptoms. For some women, the virus will go aware before developing into cervical cancer.
Having some of these risk factors does not equate to having cervical cancer. The risk factors for cervical cancer include:
- HPV
- Family history of cervical cancer
- Multiple sexual partners
- Having three or more pregnancies
- Obesity
- Smoking
Women's Resources
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Gynecology
Learn more about our comprehensive gynecological services from menopausal care to cancer screenings to hormone replacement therapy. Women's health services offered at Lee Health
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Women's Health
Comprehensive women's health services that include OB/GYN, maternity, and breast care -- everything from preventive care to specialists who can help you on your journey.
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Women's Sexual Health
Our physicians specializing in women's sexual health are here to address all of your most uncomfortable concerns.
