The cervix connects the lower part of the uterus with the birth canal (vagina).
Cervical cancer occurs in cervical cells. Squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma are the two most common types of cervical cancer.
95% of cervical cancer cases are caused by HPV. The HPV vaccine can protect against HPV infection as well as HPV-related cancers.
Symptoms
Early-stage cervical cancer generally has no signs or symptoms. Signs and symptoms of more aggressive cervical cancer include:
Irregular or abnormal vaginal bleeding – after sexual intercourse, between periods or after menopause
Watery and bloody vaginal discharge with a foul odour
Pelvic pain or pain during sexual intercourse
When to see a doctor Make an appointment with your doctor if you are experiencing any abnormal vaginal bleeding or if you have any signs or symptoms that concern you.
Prevention
When detected early and treated, cervical cancer is highly preventable and curable.
Before cervical cancer develops, abnormal cellular changes occur in the cervix. The abnormal changes are known as cervical precancer or cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). Successful CIN treatment eliminates the risk of cervical cancer.
A woman's risk of cervical cancer in the future can also be reduced with HPV vaccination during adolescence.
Screening tests
All women between the ages of 25 and 69 who have been sexually active are encouraged to undergo regular screening (Pap smear or HPV test).
During a Pap smear test or HPV test, a scraping of cells from the surface of the cervix is obtained during a vaginal examination. It is a quick, easy, and painless test.
HPV vaccination
Full vaccination includes two doses of vaccine administered over a period of 6 months. The effectiveness of the vaccine is very high for women who are not exposed to HPV-16 and HPV-18 infection and the protection is long-lasting.
Causes and Risks
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the most common cause or risk factor for cervical cancer. Other risk factors for cervical cancer include:
Sexual intercourse at an early age (before age 20)
Have multiple sexual partners
Other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), e.g. chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and HIV/AIDS
Medical conditions or treatments that affect the immune system, e.g. autoimmune diseases, taking long-term steroids or immunosuppressive drugs
Past diagnosis of pre-cancerous cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN)
Smoking
Brochure
To learn more about HPV and cancer, please click the picture box below to read our information leaflet.