There are various reasons why doctors regard cervical cancer as a silent killer among women. It is primarily because this cancer does not depict any signs until the time the disease is in its later stages. Hence, it becomes difficult to detect cancer early, and in the later stages, the treatment becomes complicated. So, when the symptoms appear, the disease is already in its later stages.

Unfortunately, the early warning signs of cervical cancer are non-specific, meaning they could have been because of several other things. Hence, only experiencing these symptoms does not indicate that you have cervical cancer. However, it still helps to be aware of these symptoms.

The typical warning signs of cervical cancer include the following:

• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
  Now, the vaginal discharge could occur because of many different reasons. However, if this discharge is foul-smelling or watery, it could be a cause of concern. Though having a discharge that is milky white or clear is normal, but if this discharge smells weird, it could indicate an infection and demands a diagnosis.

• Spotting or bleeding
  One of the most common symptoms of this cancer is incomprehensible vaginal bleeding. Though this is a vague symptom and could mean a multitude of different things. However, if the bleeding is experienced after intercourse, in-between mensuration, or post-menopause, it could indicate of cervical cancer. Moreover, if you are experiencing heavier menstrual bleeding or bleeding from douching or bleeding following a pelvic test, it may be a symptom of cervical cancer. At times, the periods last longer than usual. This, too, could mean cervical cancer.

• Pelvic pain, which doesn’t go away
  Pain in the lower back or the pelvic pain could also be a sign of an issue with your reproductive organs. However, if this pain is persistent, you need to be careful. In case the pain is closer to the appendix, it could mean that cancer has advanced to later stages.

• Painful sex
  If the tumor has grown in the cervix, it could cause pain while having sex. It is again a later-stage symptom of cervical cancer. The bleeding or pain during sex could mean other benign things too. So, it is best to undergo a pap test to clear all possibilities.

• Fatigue
  We can feel tired excessively because of the umpteen number of reasons. However, if the tiredness doesn’t seem to go even after a proper sleep or rest, it could be an indication of an underlying problem.

• Incomprehensible weight loss
  Incomprehensible weight loss or not feeling hungry enough could also be a symptom of this cancer. However, it is not a giveaway sign. If this sign is followed by the other signs listed above, it could be a cause of concern.

• Pain or swelling in legs
  Lastly, swelling in legs or pain in legs could also be a sign of cervical cancer. Again this, too, wouldn’t be experienced until cancer has reached later stages. The swelling in legs is because of a build-up of fluid in the legs. It is known as lymphedema.