Cervical Carcinoma - Cancer of the Cervix

What can be done to prevent the disease?

Many times, cancer of the cervix can be avoided by early detection and treatment of cervical dysplasia. Cervical dysplasia can be detected by a pelvic examination that includes a Pap smear. Women should start to have Pap smears and pelvic exams when they reach the age of 16 or as soon as they become sexually active.

A woman can lower her risk for getting cervical cancer by taking the following steps:

A woman should ask her sexual partners about their sexual histories, so that those who seem to be high-risk can be avoided.

Identification of early warning signs of cervical cancer is also important. A woman should see her healthcare provider and may need to be treated if she has any of the following signs or symptoms:

What are the long-term effects of the disease?

If abnormal cells are found early and treated, it may be possible to avoid removing the uterus so that a woman can still have children. Unfortunately, once cervical cancer occurs, more aggressive measures may be needed. If the cancer is found and treated early, there is an excellent chance of cure. If left untreated, it may spread to nearby areas or more distant sites in the body.

What are the risks to others?

Cervical cancer is not contagious and does not pose a risk to others. Sexually transmitted diseases associated with cervical cancer, such as Chlamydia trachomatis\. Sexually transmitted disease refers to any contagious disease transmitted from one person to another during sexual contact. ',CAPTION,'Chlamydia');" onmouseout="return nd();">chlamydia and human papilloma virus, are contagious.