Symptoms

Precancerous changes and early cancers of the cervix generally do not cause pain or other symptoms. It is important not to wait to feel pain before seeing a doctor.

When the disease gets worse, women may notice one or more of these symptoms:

•· Abnormal vaginal bleeding

•· Bleeding that occurs between regular menstrual periods

•· Bleeding after sexual intercourse, douching, or a pelvic exam

•· Menstrual periods that last longer and are heavier than before

•· Bleeding after menopause

•· Increased vaginal discharge

•· Pelvic pain

•· Pain during sexual intercourse

Infections or other health problems may also cause these symptoms. Only a doctor can tell for sure. A woman with any of these symptoms should tell her doctor so that problems can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible.