Cervical Cancer
Overview of Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer begins in the cervix—the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It often starts with precancerous changes called dysplasia, which can be detected early with screening tests like the Pap smear. Most cases are linked to long-term infection with high-risk strains of HPV (human papillomavirus)
Cervical Cancer Types
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (90%)
•Develops from squamous cells covering the outer cervix
Adenocarcinoma
•Develops from glandular cells that produce mucus within the cervix.
Mixed Carcinoma
•Has elements of both squamous and glandular cells.
Cervical Cancer Symptoms
- •
Vaginal bleeding after intercourse Bleeding between periods or after menopause Heavier or longer periods than usual
- •
Watery, pink, brown, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge May occur without any bleeding
- •
Dull or sharp lower abdominal pain Pain during sex
- •
Pain or bleeding while urinating Increased frequency without infection
What’s Notable
Early cervical cancer may not show any symptoms at all.
Many symptoms mimic common infections - don't ignore changes that persist
When to Seek Help
If bleeding or discharge patterns feel “off” or symptoms last beyond 2 weeks, consult a gynecologist. Early-stage cervical cancer is highly treatable.
Cervical Cancer Causes & Risk Factors
HPV Infection
Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by high-risk HPV strains, especially HPV-16 and HPV-18
Immunocompromised State
HIV or long-term steroid use can increase susceptibility
LIfestyle
Obesity(post-menopause), alcohol, smoking, inactivity, poor diet
Smoking
Weakens cervical cell immunity and doubles cancer risk
Multiple Sexual Partners
Increases exposure risk to HPV, thereby increasing risk of getting cervical cancer
Cervical Cancer Diagnosis
Initial Symptoms & Check-up
Step 1: Initial Check-Up (If you notice unusual vaginal bleeding, discharge, or pelvic pain)
What happens:
- Doctor performs pelvic exam and visual inspection
- May do a Pap smear and/or HPV test
- Your role: Share all symptoms, even if they seem minor
Imaging Tests
Step 2: Imaging Tests (If cancer is suspected)
- Transvaginal Ultrasound
- MRI or CT scan to assess spread
Biopsy
Step 3: Biopsy (Definitive Test) (Needed to confirm cancer)
- Colposcopy-guided biopsy
- Endocervical curettage or cone biopsy (if needed)
- Your role: Ask about pain relief options and post-procedure care
Pathology
Step 4: Pathology and Lab Results (Takes a few days to a week)
- Determines cancer type (e.g., squamous cell, adenocarcinoma)
- Identifies stage and possible HPV strain
Staging
Step 5: Staging Tests (To plan the best treatment)
- PET/CT, chest X-ray, or cystoscopy/proctoscopy (in some cases)
Step 1: Initial Check-Up (If you notice unusual vaginal bleeding, discharge, or pelvic pain)
What happens:
- Doctor performs pelvic exam and visual inspection
- May do a Pap smear and/or HPV test
- Your role: Share all symptoms, even if they seem minor
Step 2
Imaging Tests
Step 3
Biopsy
Step 4
Pathology
Step 5
Staging
Bladder Cancer Treatment
Chemotherapy
Purpose:
Kills rapidly growing cervical cancer cells throughout the body.
Common drugs:
Cisplatin (standard), Carboplatin (used when cisplatin isn't tolerated)
Side effects:
Nausea, vomiting, fatigue, low blood counts
Targeted Therapy
Purpose:
Blocks cancer growth by targeting specific proteins
Common drug:
Bevacizumab (anti-angiogenic)
Side effects:
High blood pressure, bleeding risks, headaches
Immunotherapy
Purpose:
Boosts the immune system to fight cancer
Used for:
Advanced or PD-L1+ cervical cancers
Common drug:
Pembrolizumab
Side effects:
Fatigue, skin rash, inflammation of organs
External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)
How it works:
Delivers radiation from outside the body to the pelvic region
Treatment duration:
25–35 sessions over 5–7 weeks
Note:
Often paired with chemotherapy for locally advanced disease
Brachytherapy (Internal Radiation)
How it works:
Radioactive sources are placed inside or near the cervix
Treatment duration:
3–6 sessions over 1–2 weeks
Note:
Typically follows EBRT to deliver a high dose to the tumor area
Conization
What it does:
A cone-shaped section of abnorma cervical tissue is removed, which can also as a diagnostic procedures
Treated for:
Precancerous changes or very early-stage cancer
Recovery:
1-2 Weeks
Trachelectomy
What it does:
The cervix is removed, while the uterus is kept intact. Often followed by a cervical cerclage if pregnancy is attempted later
Treated for:
Early-stage cancer in women wishing to preserve fertility
Recovery:
2–4 weeks
Hysterectomy
What it is:
Surgical removal of the uterus and cervix. A total hysterectomy is done for early-stage cancer, while a radical hysterectomy is performed if surrounding tissues are involved
Used for:
Localized cervical cancer
Recovery:
4–6 weeks
Pelvic Exenteration
What it is:
A major surgery that removes pelvic organs
Used for:
Recurrent or advanced cervical cancer when no distant spread is found
Recovery:
Long-term; intensive follow-up needed
Chemoradiation
Goal:
Control the tumor and prevent spread
What it is:
Combination of chemotherapy and radiation
Used for:
Locally advanced stages
Palliative Care
Goal:
Improve quality of life
Support provided:
Pain relief, symptom management, emotional and spiritual support
Note:
Can be introduced alongside treatment, not just at the end of life
Targeted & Immunotherapy
Goal:
Manage recurrence or metastatic disease
What it involves:
Bevacizumab with chemotherapy or immunotherapy
Used for:
Late-stage or resistant cases
Recovery
Follow Up Care
•Regular pelvic exams and scans to monitor for recurrence.
Hormonal Health
•Managing symptoms of early menopause with lifestyle changes or hormone therapy when appropriate.
Sexual Health Support
•Physical therapy and counseling to address intimacy or vaginal changes post-treatment.
Mental Wellness
•Counseling to cope with anxiety, depression, or body image concerns
Support Systems
•Joining survivor communities for emotional resilience and shared healing.
Fertility Guidance
•Options like fertility preservation for younger survivors.
Routine Restoration
•Ease back into work and relationships at your pace.
Wellbeing Focus
•Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and exercise for ongoing recover
•
Cervical Cancer Types
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (90%)
•Develops from squamous cells covering the outer cervix
Adenocarcinoma
•Develops from glandular cells that produce mucus within the cervix.
Mixed Carcinoma
•Has elements of both squamous and glandular cells.
Cervical Cancer Symptoms
- •
Vaginal bleeding after intercourse Bleeding between periods or after menopause Heavier or longer periods than usual
- •
Watery, pink, brown, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge May occur without any bleeding
- •
Dull or sharp lower abdominal pain Pain during sex
- •
Pain or bleeding while urinating Increased frequency without infection
What’s Notable
Early cervical cancer may not show any symptoms at all.
Many symptoms mimic common infections - don't ignore changes that persist
When to Seek Help
If bleeding or discharge patterns feel “off” or symptoms last beyond 2 weeks, consult a gynecologist. Early-stage cervical cancer is highly treatable.
Cervical Cancer Causes & Risk Factors
HPV Infection
Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by high-risk HPV strains, especially HPV-16 and HPV-18
Immunocompromised State
HIV or long-term steroid use can increase susceptibility
LIfestyle
Obesity(post-menopause), alcohol, smoking, inactivity, poor diet
Smoking
Weakens cervical cell immunity and doubles cancer risk
Multiple Sexual Partners
Increases exposure risk to HPV, thereby increasing risk of getting cervical cancer
Cervical Cancer Diagnosis
Initial Symptoms & Check-up
Step 1: Initial Check-Up (If you notice unusual vaginal bleeding, discharge, or pelvic pain)
What happens:
- Doctor performs pelvic exam and visual inspection
- May do a Pap smear and/or HPV test
- Your role: Share all symptoms, even if they seem minor
Imaging Tests
Step 2: Imaging Tests (If cancer is suspected)
- Transvaginal Ultrasound
- MRI or CT scan to assess spread
Biopsy
Step 3: Biopsy (Definitive Test) (Needed to confirm cancer)
- Colposcopy-guided biopsy
- Endocervical curettage or cone biopsy (if needed)
- Your role: Ask about pain relief options and post-procedure care
Pathology
Step 4: Pathology and Lab Results (Takes a few days to a week)
- Determines cancer type (e.g., squamous cell, adenocarcinoma)
- Identifies stage and possible HPV strain
Staging
Step 5: Staging Tests (To plan the best treatment)
- PET/CT, chest X-ray, or cystoscopy/proctoscopy (in some cases)
Step 1: Initial Check-Up (If you notice unusual vaginal bleeding, discharge, or pelvic pain)
What happens:
- Doctor performs pelvic exam and visual inspection
- May do a Pap smear and/or HPV test
- Your role: Share all symptoms, even if they seem minor
Step 2
Imaging Tests
Step 3
Biopsy
Step 4
Pathology
Step 5
Staging
Bladder Cancer Treatment
Chemotherapy
Purpose:
Kills rapidly growing cervical cancer cells throughout the body.
Common drugs:
Cisplatin (standard), Carboplatin (used when cisplatin isn't tolerated)
Side effects:
Nausea, vomiting, fatigue, low blood counts
Targeted Therapy
Purpose:
Blocks cancer growth by targeting specific proteins
Common drug:
Bevacizumab (anti-angiogenic)
Side effects:
High blood pressure, bleeding risks, headaches
Immunotherapy
Purpose:
Boosts the immune system to fight cancer
Used for:
Advanced or PD-L1+ cervical cancers
Common drug:
Pembrolizumab
Side effects:
Fatigue, skin rash, inflammation of organs
External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)
How it works:
Delivers radiation from outside the body to the pelvic region
Treatment duration:
25–35 sessions over 5–7 weeks
Note:
Often paired with chemotherapy for locally advanced disease
Brachytherapy (Internal Radiation)
How it works:
Radioactive sources are placed inside or near the cervix
Treatment duration:
3–6 sessions over 1–2 weeks
Note:
Typically follows EBRT to deliver a high dose to the tumor area
Conization
What it does:
A cone-shaped section of abnorma cervical tissue is removed, which can also as a diagnostic procedures
Treated for:
Precancerous changes or very early-stage cancer
Recovery:
1-2 Weeks
Trachelectomy
What it does:
The cervix is removed, while the uterus is kept intact. Often followed by a cervical cerclage if pregnancy is attempted later
Treated for:
Early-stage cancer in women wishing to preserve fertility
Recovery:
2–4 weeks
Hysterectomy
What it is:
Surgical removal of the uterus and cervix. A total hysterectomy is done for early-stage cancer, while a radical hysterectomy is performed if surrounding tissues are involved
Used for:
Localized cervical cancer
Recovery:
4–6 weeks
Pelvic Exenteration
What it is:
A major surgery that removes pelvic organs
Used for:
Recurrent or advanced cervical cancer when no distant spread is found
Recovery:
Long-term; intensive follow-up needed
Chemoradiation
Goal:
Control the tumor and prevent spread
What it is:
Combination of chemotherapy and radiation
Used for:
Locally advanced stages
Palliative Care
Goal:
Improve quality of life
Support provided:
Pain relief, symptom management, emotional and spiritual support
Note:
Can be introduced alongside treatment, not just at the end of life
Targeted & Immunotherapy
Goal:
Manage recurrence or metastatic disease
What it involves:
Bevacizumab with chemotherapy or immunotherapy
Used for:
Late-stage or resistant cases
Recovery
Follow Up Care
•Regular pelvic exams and scans to monitor for recurrence.
Hormonal Health
•Managing symptoms of early menopause with lifestyle changes or hormone therapy when appropriate.
Sexual Health Support
•Physical therapy and counseling to address intimacy or vaginal changes post-treatment.
Mental Wellness
•Counseling to cope with anxiety, depression, or body image concerns
Support Systems
•Joining survivor communities for emotional resilience and shared healing.
Fertility Guidance
•Options like fertility preservation for younger survivors.
Routine Restoration
•Ease back into work and relationships at your pace.
Wellbeing Focus
•Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and exercise for ongoing recover
•
At Everhope Oncology, we believe that cervical cancer is not merely an illness—it's an individual experience. With our experienced diagnostics, caring attention, and innovative therapies, we're committed to walking with you every step of the way toward healing and hope.
cases globally in 2022
deaths worldwide — 94% in low- and middle-income countries
new cases in India in 2022
FAQs on Cervical Cancer
No question is too small when it comes to your care
Early warning signs of cervical cancer often begin subtly and can include unusual vaginal bleeding (between periods, after intercourse, or post-menopause), persistent or foul-smelling vaginal discharge, pain during sexual activity, lower abdominal or pelvic pain, and changes in menstrual cycles that are longer or heavier than usual. In advanced stages, symptoms like swelling of the legs, frequent urination, and fatigue may also occur
Cervical cancer is highly treatable and often curable when diagnosed in its early stages before it spreads outside the cervix. Standard treatments such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy can achieve complete remission, especially for localized disease. Cure rates drop if the cancer advances, but treatment can still prolong life and improve symptoms
Cervical cancer treatment length depends on the stage and chosen therapies. Surgical treatment and recovery may span a few weeks, while combined approaches (like chemoradiation or maintenance therapy) can extend from several months to a year or longer in some cases. Ongoing checkups and follow-ups are typically recommended for several years after the initial treatment completes
Cervical cancer and its treatments can affect fertility, particularly if surgery removes the uterus or cervix, or if radiation and chemotherapy are involved. Fertility-sparing procedures are possible for some early-stage cases, but risks of infertility, early menopause, and pregnancy complications remain. Close consultation with fertility specialists prior to treatment is essential
The risk of cervical cancer coming back depends largely on the stage at initial diagnosis and the completeness of the first treatment. Recurrence rates range from around 4% in the first year to 8-10% within five years post-treatment, with most recurrences occurring in the first two to three years. Higher stages and lymph node involvement increase relapse risk, and ongoing monitoring is strongly advised
At Everhope Oncology, appointments for cervical cancer treatment are easy to arrange, with same-day expert consultations available in a calm, private setting. Our Gurgaon centers on Golf Course Extension Road (Sector 65 and Sector 12) offer a full range of therapies, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted treatments, and precision diagnostics, all managed by a team of leading oncologists and supportive care specialists. Patients benefit from streamlined web booking, 24/7 concierge support, personalized nutrition guidance, and rapid diagnostics—all designed to minimize waiting and maximize comfort. Everhope’s unique daycare model allows most cancer therapies to be completed in private suites in just a few hours, enabling recovery at home and preserving daily routines. You can book an appointment directly through the Everhope Oncology website (everhope.care), call the support hotline, or even coordinate via WhatsApp for convenience. Each step—from admission to discharge—is fast, seamless, and patient-first, ensuring compassionate care tailored to your needs
Find a Centre Near You
Gurgaon EBD 65
EBD 65, Sector 65, Golf Course Extension Road, Gurgaon