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The good news is that regular screening and follow-up care can prevent most deaths from cervical cancer. Even better, you can get screened at no cost to you. The health care reform act covers cervical cancer screenings, part of a “well-woman visit.”
What’s equally important is for you to be aware of the warning signs of cervical cancer, which may not cause any symptoms at first (when they are pre-cancers or early cancers), but later on, may affect you with pelvic pain or vaginal bleeding.
Here are the signs of cervical cancer:
Bleeding after intercourse
Bleeding after menopause
Bleeding between periods
Bleeding after douching
Bleeding following a pelvic exam
Having heavier menstrual periods than usual or ones that last longer than usual
Unusual vaginal discharge
Pain during sex
Pelvic pain
Of course, just because you have any of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you have cervical cancer. The symptoms could be caused by other conditions, like an infection. But it’s wise to schedule an appointment with your health care professional to get checked and, if appropriate, get treated.
The screening guidelines for cervical cancer can be confusing. Most major medical organizations no longer recommend routine yearly screening, but it is important to know what’s appropriate for your age, personal history and risk factors. You can read all about the new guidelines here.