Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is a malignancy that develops in the cells of the cervix. Like other areas of the body the cervical cells can grow abnormally and form tumours.  As a rule cervical cancer normally takes many years to develop, and is usually preceded by abnormal changes in cervical cells (that are not cancerous).

Symptoms

• Irregular bleeding from the vagina
• between periods
• post menopausal
• after intercourse
• brown or blood stained vaginal discharge

Having one or more of these symptoms does not mean you definitely have cervical cancer or dysplasia. However you should see your health professional to have your symptoms investigated.

If every woman aged between 18 and 70-years-old had a pap smear every two years (or within two years of first sexual intercourse), 90 per cent of cervical cancer could be prevented

A pap smear test is designed to detect early changes in the cells of the cervix which may later lead to cancer.

The Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20

for information and support for you and your family.

www.cancer.org.au