Archive | January 2025

QUOTE FOR THE WEEKEND:

Jan4
“Cervical cancer usually grows slowly, over many years. Before actual cancer cells in the cervix develop, the tissues of the cervix undergo changes at the cellular level — called dysplasia, or precancers. At this early precancer stage, these dysplastic cells can often be removed and the condition cured with an office procedure.
Experts at Memorial Sloan Kettering usually perform a biopsy and conduct other tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the stage of the disease.”

Part II Cervical Cancer Awareness Month-Risk Factors, Symptoms of it, Signs of advanced cervical cancer!

Jan4

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Cervical Cancer. Carcinoma of Cervix. Malignant neoplasm arising from cells in the cervix uteri. Vaginal bleeding. Vector diagram

Cervical cancer risk factors

GENERAL

  • Pregnancy: Women who have had three or more full-term pregnancies, or who had their first full-term pregnancy before age 17, are twice as likely to get cervical cancer.

GENETICS

  • Family history: Women with a sister or mother who had cervical cancer are two to three times more likely to develop cervical cancer.

LIFESTYLE

  • Sexual history: Certain types of sexual behavior are considered risk factors for cervical cancer and HPV infection. These include: sex before age 18, sex with multiple partners and sex with someone who has had multiple partners. Studies also show a link between chlamydia infection and cervical cancer.
  • Smoking: A woman who smokes doubles her risk of cervical cancer.
  • Oral contraceptive use: Women who take oral contraceptives for more than five years have an increased risk of cervical cancer, but this risk returns to normal within a few years after the pills are stopped.

OTHER CONDITIONS

  • Weakened immune system: In most people with healthy immune systems, the HPV virus clears itself from the body within 12-18 months. However, people with HIV or other health conditions or who take medications that limit the body’s ability to fight off infection have a higher risk of developing cervical cancer.
  • Diethylstilbestrol (DES): Women whose mothers took DES, a drug given to some women to prevent miscarriage between 1940 and 1971, have a higher risk of developing cervical cancer.
  • HPV: Though HPV causes cancer, having HPV does not mean you will get cancer. The majority of women who contract HPV clear the virus or have treatment so the abnormal cells are removed. HPV is a skin infection, spread through skin-to-skin contact with a person who has the virus.

Additional facts about HPV:

  • There are more than 100 types of HPV, 30-40 of which are sexually transmitted.
  • Of these, at least 15 are high-risk HPV strains that can cause cervical cancer. The others cause no symptoms or genital warts.
  • Up to 80 percent of women will contract HPV in their lifetime. Men get HPV, too, but there is no test for them.
  • A healthy immune system will usually clear the HPV virus before there is a symptom, including the high-risk types of HPV.
  • Only a small percentage of women with high-risk HPV develop cervical cancer.

Understanding risk factors:

Anything that increases your risk of getting a disease is called a risk factor. Having a risk factor does not mean that you will get cancer. Not having risk factors doesn’t mean that you will not get cancer. If you think you may be at risk, you should discuss it with your doctor.

Regarding symptoms of cervical cancer:

In most cases, cervical cancer does not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages of the disease. Routine Pap screening is important to check for abnormal cells in the cervix, so they can be monitored and treated as early as possible. Most women are advised to get a Pap test starting at age 21.

The Pap test is one of the most reliable and effective cancer screening methods available, and women should have yearly exams by an OB-GYN. However, the Pap test may not detect some cases of abnormal cells in the cervix. The HPV test screens women for the high-risk HPV strains that may lead to cervical cancer. It is approved for women over age 30.

Although screening methods are not 100 percent accurate, these tests are often an effective method for detecting cervical cancer in the early stages when it is still highly treatable. Talk with your doctor about which type of cervical cancer screening is right for you.

When present, common symptoms of cervical cancer may include:

  • Vaginal bleeding: This includes bleeding between periods, after sexual intercourse or post-menopausal bleeding.
  • Unusual vaginal discharge: A watery, pink or foul-smelling discharge is common.
  • Pelvic pain: Pain during intercourse or at other times may be a sign of abnormal changes to the cervix, or less serious conditions.

All of these cervical cancer symptoms should be discussed with your doctor.

Signs of advanced stages of cervical cancer:

Cervical cancer may spread (metastasize) within the pelvis, to the lymph nodes or elsewhere in the body. Signs of advanced cervical cancer include:

  • Weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Back pain
  • Leg pain or swelling
  • Leakage of urine or feces from the vagina
  • Bone fractures

QUOTE FOR FRIDAY:

Jan3

“Cervical cancer is a growth of cells that starts in the cervix. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.

Various strains of the human papillomavirus, also called HPV, play a role in causing most cervical cancers. HPV is a common infection that’s passed through sexual contact. When exposed to HPV, the body’s immune system typically prevents the virus from doing harm. In a small percentage of people, however, the virus survives for years. This contributes to the process that causes some cervical cells to become cancer cells.

You can reduce your risk of developing cervical cancer by having screening tests and receiving a vaccine that protects against HPV infection.”

MAYO CLINIC (Cervical cancer – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic)

Part I Cervical Cancer Awareness Month & Signs to watch out for!

Jan3

 

 

  cervical-cancer-month5 

What is Cervical Health Awareness Month?

The United States Congress designated January as Cervical Health Awareness Month. During January, NCCC and its many local chapters across the country highlight issues related to cervical cancer, HPV disease and the importance of early detection. More than 40 years ago cervical cancer was a major cancer death risk for women. With the development of pap tests and in-depth recognition of warning signs those numbers are dropping significantly. We still aren’t completely safe however, as many thousands of women are still affected by cervical cancer every year.

Cervical Cancer is today’s issue. Through National Cervical Cancer Coalition with Dr. Warner Huh stated the following information about today’ topic:

Cervical cancer screening used to all be so simple==PREVENTION.   Women were told just go for your annual Pap but now we have new tests to screen for cervical cancer, plus updated guidelines that—for most women—mean routine screening is done every few years rather than annually. Dr. Warner Huh of the University of Alabama, Birmingham sorts out the new landscape of Pap and HPV tests.

Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is a common sexually transmitted infection. So common that most (~80%) sexually active people will be infected with HPV at some point.

Cervical cancer begins in the cervix, the narrow organ at the bottom of the uterus that connects to the vagina. The cervix dilates during childbirth to allow for passage of a baby.

Picking up on risk factors and warning signs could save an individual from a lifetime of suffering. These include whether or not you’ve contracted HPV, if you eat a whole diet, have used birth control, have HIV, smoke cigarettes, or if it’s just in your genetics.

Here are some signs to watch out for:

Leg Pain – Some women exhibiting early stages of cervical cancer experience swelling and pain in the leg. When the cervix swells it can lead to an obstructed blood flow, which eventually causes the leg to swell and gives a sore, painful sensation. This may be a sign of early cervical cancer.

Vaginal discharge colored with blood – It’s normal for a woman to experience small amounts of clear discharge without color or odor. However, bloody, dark, or smelly discharge is usually a sign of infection. But sometimes, it’s a sign of cervical or endometrial cancer.

Abnormal vaginal bleeding – More than 90% of women diagnosed with endometrial cancer experience irregular bleeding. If you have already undergone menopause, any bleeding — spotting included — should be evaluated. Haven’t gone through menopause yet? See your doctor if you experience bleeding between periods, heavy bleeding or bleeding during sex.

Discomforting Urination – Keeping track of urination can help reveal the presence of cervical cancer in several ways. The most immediately obvious and prevalent symptom is discomfort while urinating.  You may experience burning, stinging, or a tight sensation. This is another symptom to see a doctor about either way.

Irregular Urination – The appearance of the urine and urinary habits can also be symptoms of cervical cancer. If you notice strange changes in the frequency of your urine, loss of bladder control (incontinence) or a discoloration – especially with blood – seek the input of a medical professional.

Irregular Menstrual Cycles – There should be some level of consistency when it comes to monthly periods. If time, frequency, or any other changes disrupt the regular routine, it can also be a sign that you’re at a much higher risk for cancer and will require regular screenings.

Uncomfortable Sex – Painful intercourse, otherwise known as dyspareunia, is another discomforting side effect of cervical cancer. There are several possible reasons for this symptom to develop, as is the case with many of the symptoms on this list. This symptom is most commonly linked to conditions that require medical attention, however, so it shouldn’t be ignored.

Pain in the pelvis or abdominal area – Abdominal pain or discomfort — including gas, indigestion, pressure, bloating, and cramps — can signal ovarian cancer. And, constant pelvic pain or pressure can be a sign of endometrial cancer.

Back Pain – Back pain is common, affecting around 80 percent of the population, and it can happen for a wide variety of reasons, but if accompanied with other symptoms from the list, go for a medical check-up.

Stayed tune to Part II of Cervical Awareness Month tomorrow!

 

 

 

QUOTE FOR THURSDAY:

Jan2

“The cervix is the lower, narrow end of the uterus that connects the uterus to the vagina. It is made up of the internal OS (the opening between the cervix and the upper part of the uterus), the endocervix (the inner part of the cervix that forms the endocervical canal), the ectocervix (the outer part of the cervix that opens into the vagina) and the external OS (the opening between the cervix and vagina).”

National Cancer Institute – NIH (Definition of cervix – NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms – NCI)

Know what the cervix is and why this month!

Jan2

Where is your cervix located?

Your cervix is an important part of your reproductive anatomy. Your cervix is located inside your pelvic cavity, anywhere from 3 to 6 inches inside your vaginal canal. It begins at the base of your uterus and extends downward onto the top part of your vagina. This place where your cervix bulges onto the uppermost part of your vagina is called your ectocervix.

Your vagina, cervix and uterus are located behind your bladder and urethra (organs that allow you to pee) and in front of your rectum and anus (organs that allow you to poop).

What does your cervix look like?

The word “cervix” comes from the Latin word meaning “neck.” Like a neck, your cervix is shaped roughly like a cylinder or tube and connects important body parts. While your neck connects your head to the rest of your body, your cervix connects your uterus to your vagina. Your cervix is wider in the middle and narrows at both ends, where it opens into your uterus (top) and vagina (bottom).

Your cervix consists of the following parts:

  • Internal OS: The opening that leads to your uterus. Your provider may refer to your internal OS during pregnancy.
  • Endocervical canal: A tunnel that extends from your Internal OS to your ectocervix.
  • Ectocervix: The part of your cervix that bulges onto the top of your vagina.
  • External OS: The opening that leads to your vagina.

Your cervix is a muscular, tunnel-like organ. It’s the lower part of your uterus, and it connects your uterus and vagina. Sometimes called the “neck of the uterus,” your cervix plays an important role in allowing fluids to pass between your uterus and vagina. It enables a baby to leave your uterus so that it can travel through your vagina (birth canal) during childbirth. The cervix is also a common site for cell changes that may indicate cancer.

Getting regular Pap smears allows your provider to screen for irregularities that may be signs of disease.

Who has a cervix?

People who are designated female at birth (DFAB) have a cervix. DFAB people include cisgender women — people who are DFAB and identify as women — and some transgender men and nonbinary individuals. Some intersex individuals have cervixes, too.

What is the functions of your cervix?

Your cervix is a passage that allows fluids to flow inside and out of your uterus. It’s also a powerful gatekeeper that can open and close in ways that make pregnancy and childbirth possible.

Your cervix plays important roles in the following:

  • Menstruation: The period blood you shed each month as part of your menstrual cycle has to pass from your uterus and through your cervix before exiting your vagina.
  • Pregnancy: During penis-in-vagina sex, or intercourse, your partner may ejaculate (release) sperm into your vagina. The sperm has to travel through your cervix to reach your uterus and fallopian tubes to fertilize an egg.
  • Fertility: Your cervical mucus plays a role in how easily you can become pregnant. Around ovulation (when your body releases an egg), your cervix secretes mucus that’s thinner and less acidic than usual, making it easy for sperm to pass through to your uterus. As a result, sperm can reach your egg and fertilize it more easily.
  • Vaginal delivery: Your cervix controls when a baby exits your uterus during childbirth. During pregnancy, your cervix secretes a mucus plug that seals entry to your uterus. Once it’s time for the baby to be born, the mucus plug dissolves, and your cervix becomes softer and thinner. Your cervix widens (dilates) so that the baby can exit your uterus. Your provider can estimate how long it will take for your baby to be born based on how much your cervix has dilated.
  • Protecting your uterus: Your cervix prevents objects inserted into your vagina, such as tampons or diaphragms, from slipping inside your uterus.

The place where the endocervical canal overlaps with the ectocervix is called the transformation zone (TZ). The TZ is the part of your cervix where cell changes happen most. It’s the most common site for abnormal cells to grow in your cervix, indicating conditions like cervical dysplasia or cervical cancer.

How big is your cervix?

Your cervix is about an inch long. Cervical sizes vary, though. Generally, your cervix is larger if you’ve given birth. The cervix is larger among people in their reproductive years than those who’ve gone through menopause. Your cervix gets significantly shorter during childbirth to allow a baby to easily exit your uterus and enter your vagina.

Can you touch your cervix?

Yes, depending on the timing of your menstrual cycle. If you insert your longest finger into your vaginal canal, you should eventually reach a barrier preventing your finger from sliding in further. This barrier is your cervix. It may feel firm and tight, or it may feel soft and spongy. The location and texture of your cervix change depending on whether or not you’re ovulating. It’s the softest and hardest to reach during ovulation.

Take care that you only attempt to touch your cervix when you’ve washed your hands thoroughly with mild soap and warm water. Otherwise, you could expose your cervix to bacteria and cause infection.

What is your cervix made of?

Your cervix consists of strong fibromuscular tissue. Two main types of cells line your cervix:

  • Glandular cells: These cells line the endocervical canal, the innermost part of your cervix.
  • Squamous cells: These cells cover the ectocervix, the outermost part of your cervix, and your vagina.

These different cell types meet at the TZ, where cell changes frequently take place. This area is of particular interest to your provider during screenings for cervical cancer.