Cervical cancer is the type of cancer that affects the cells of the cervix, which connects the uterus with the vagina. The disease tends to show signs or symptoms only at an advanced stage, and it leads to the patient experiencing pelvic pain or pain during intercourse, vaginal bleeding after intercourse and between menstrual cycles, and blood in vaginal discharge that may have a foul smell. Scroll down to find out the risk factors and causes of cervical cancer.

Types of cervical cancer

• Squamous cell carcinoma: This condition affects the squamous cells situated in the outer lining of the cervix.
• Adenocarcinoma: This condition affects the glandular cells in the cervical canal.

Causes of cervical cancer

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection
HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that has been associated with cervical cancer. It’s a disease that can lead to skin warts, genital warts, and other skin disorders. While there are many studies that conclude a direct link of cervical cancer and HPV, there are several other risk factors also responsible for the development of this illness, and the cause is often multi-pronged.

Other risk factors of cervical cancer include:

• Multiple sexual partners
  Having multiple sexual partners or being involved with a person who has been with many sexual partners increases your risk of developing HPV. HPV is a contributing cause of cervical cancer and many other types of cancer including vulva, vaginal, penile, rectal, and throat cancer. Other STIs like syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and HIV/AIDS increase the risk of HPV.
• Sexual history
  Becoming sexually active at a young age, such as the early teens, contributes as one of the causes of cervical cancer.
• Weak immune system
  A weak immune system is host to many illnesses and varied types of cancer. This makes it crucial to develop the system’s health via necessary lifestyle changes and dietary habits. A weak immune system can be reversed by getting adequate rest, getting adequate nutrition, and working out regularly.
• Exposure to tobacco
  Prolonged exposure can damage the squamous cells, which can cause squamous cell carcinoma, a type of cervical cancer that begins in the outer part of the cervix.
• Birth control pills
  One of the causes of cervical cancer is the prolonged use of birth control pills as they have many adverse effects.

Prevention of cervical cancer

• HPV vaccine
  An HPV vaccine could prevent the risk of this STI and other related infections. While the vaccines are readily available, they need to be taken at a certain age, so consult your general physician regarding the terms to understand if you’re eligible for a shot.
• Sign up for regular pap tests
  Thankfully cervical cancer can be treated, and the earlier the problem gets diagnosed, the easier it becomes to treat it. Opt for regular pap and screening tests as they monitor and address precancerous conditions too.
• Practice safe sex
  Even after you get the vaccine, practice safe sex to keep STIs and STDs at bay. Choose your sexual partners carefully and avoid intercourse with multiple individuals in a brief period.