Cervical cancer often develops slowly, and in its early stages, it may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, as the cancer progresses, symptoms can appear, including:

• Unusual vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause

• Heavier or longer periods than usual

• Pelvic pain or discomfort during sex

• Unusual vaginal discharge that may be watery, bloody, or have a strong smell

• Pain during urination or needing to urinate more frequently

Many of these symptoms can be caused by other conditions, such as infections, but it’s important to get them checked by a doctor. Regular cervical screening tests (formerly called Pap smears) can help detect abnormal changes early, before they develop into cancer. If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t wait—early detection can make a big difference.

Cervical cancer is primarily caused by persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted virus. While HPV is widespread, only some infections lead to cervical cancer. Other risk factors include:

• Not having regular cervical screening tests, which can detect abnormal cell changes early

• Smoking, which makes it harder for the body to clear HPV infections

• A weakened immune system, due to conditions like HIV or immunosuppressive medications

• Long-term use of the contraceptive pill (more than five years)

• Having multiple sexual partners, increasing the likelihood of HPV exposure

• Early sexual activity, as the cervix is more vulnerable to HPV during adolescence

• A history of cervical cell abnormalities or previous cervical cancer

The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing most cervical cancers and is recommended for young people before they become sexually active. Regular screening and HPV vaccination are the best ways to reduce your risk.

Cervical cancer is often detected through routine cervical screening tests, which look for HPV and abnormal cell changes in the cervix. If your screening test shows abnormal results, further tests may be needed, such as:

• Colposcopy: A specialist examines the cervix using a magnifying instrument to check for abnormal areas.

• Biopsy: A small sample of cervical tissue is taken to check for cancerous or pre-cancerous cells.

• Imaging tests: If cancer is confirmed, CT, MRI, or PET scans may be used to determine the cancer’s stage and whether it has spread.

Cervical screening is recommended every five years for women and people with a cervix aged 25-74 in Australia. If you have symptoms, don’t wait for your next test—see your doctor as soon as possible.

Treatment for cervical cancer depends on the stage of the disease and whether it has spread beyond the cervix. Common treatment options include:

• Surgery: For early-stage cervical cancer, surgery may involve removing part of the cervix (cone biopsy), the entire cervix (trachelectomy, preserving fertility), or the uterus (hysterectomy).

• Radiation therapy: Often combined with chemotherapy for more advanced cases, radiation targets and destroys cancer cells in the cervix and surrounding areas.

• Chemotherapy: Used to treat advanced cervical cancer or alongside radiation (chemoradiation) to improve effectiveness.

• Targeted therapy and immunotherapy: Newer treatments, such as checkpoint inhibitors, help the immune system recognise and attack cervical cancer cells. These may be available through clinical trials.

Your healthcare team will tailor a treatment plan based on your individual circumstances. Support services, including counselling, peer support, and information on managing side effects, can help you through your cancer journey.