What it is
It mostly affects women under 45. Smoking and a weakened immune system raise the risk.
Treatment depends on the stage and may include surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Early-stage cancers are often cured.
Common signs
- Bleeding after sex, between periods or after menopause
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Pain during sex
- Pain in the lower back or pelvis
- Often no symptoms in the early stages
How it is usually diagnosed
- Cervical screening (HPV test and cell test)
- Colposcopy with biopsy
- MRI, CT or PET-CT scans to stage the cancer
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Cervical screening results and dates
- Colposcopy and biopsy reports
- Staging scan reports
- HPV vaccination record
- Treatment plans and follow-up schedule
Questions to ask your doctor
- What stage is it, and what are my options?
- How will treatment affect my fertility?
- How often will I need check-ups afterwards?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Heavy vaginal bleeding: go to an emergency department
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.