Cervical Cancer

The most common symptoms of cervical cancer include:

• Unusual vaginal bleeding
• Pain or discomfort during sex
• Vaginal discharge
• Having heavier periods than usual
• Pain in your lower back, pelvis or your lower stomach

In case of any such unusual signs consult agynaecologist for further evaluation and care.

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers due to its early screening and detection. Here are the options available:

• Pap Smears (Pap Test)
  A routine screening test to detect abnormal cells on the cervix that may lead to cervical cancer.
• HPV Testing
  Human papillomavirus (HPV) tests to detect high-risk strains of HPV that can lead to cervical cancer.
• Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA)
  A low-cost screening method used in some regions, particularly in low-resource settings, where the cervix is examined after application of acetic acid.

• Colposcopy
  If abnormal cells are found during a Pap smear, a colposcopy may be performed to closely examine the cervix and take biopsy samples.
• Biopsy
  A procedure to remove a small sample of tissue from the cervix to be examined under a microscope for signs of cancer.
• Imaging Tests
  These can include CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds to determine the extent of the cancer and check for spread (staging).

Our team of expert oncologists and onco-surgeons offers:

• Surgical Options
  • Conization (Cone Biopsy)
    Removal of a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix if the cancer is localized.
  • Hysterectomy
    Removal of the uterus (and sometimes the cervix, ovaries, and nearby lymph nodes) in cases where cancer has spread or is at a later stage.
• Radiation Therapy
  Here, high-energy rays are used to target and kill cancer cells. This may also be used in combination with other cancer treatments.
• Chemotherapy
  A systemic treatment using drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth, often used when cancer has spread.
• Targeted Therapy or Immunotherapy
  Treatments that target specific molecules involved in cancer growth or stimulate the body's immune system to fight cancer.

• Pain Management
  For those with advanced stages of cancer, palliative care services can manage pain and discomfort.
• Psychosocial Support
  Counselling services and support groups to help patients cope with the emotional, psychological, and social aspects of living with cancer.
• Nutritional Support
  Advice on maintaining a healthy diet during treatment to manage side effects and enhance recovery.
• Rehabilitation Services
  Physical therapy or other rehabilitation services may be offered, especially after surgery or radiation therapy.

Consult your gynaecologist to know more about the HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine is available to prevent HPV infections, which are a major cause of cervical cancer. Additionally, educational programs to raise awareness about the importance of cervical cancer screening, HPV vaccination, and early detection.

• Regular Check-ups
  After treatment, patients will need regular follow-up visits to monitor for any recurrence of cancer or potential side effects from treatment.
• Survivorship Care Plans
  Guidance on long-term health and wellness after treatment, including strategies for managing any late effects of treatment.

Cervical cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer in cases when detected early. The majority of cervical cancers are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), and they often develop slowly over time. This slow progression provides a window of opportunity for early detection and treatment, which can significantly improve outcomes.

For women with early-stage cervical cancer, options may include surgical procedures or targeted therapies that aim to preserve fertility. A smaller number of cases can become aggressive and spread beyond the cervix, necessitating more comprehensive treatments. For these patients, a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation might be recommended. Reach out to our highly trained and experienced team of experts for cervical cancer in Indore at our Centre for Cancer. Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Indore offers the best possible cervical cancer care as per each patient’s unique medical needs and personal preferences, focusing on enhancing survival rates and improving quality of life.