Cervical cancer was the leading cause of death in women until the 1940s. The Pap test was introduced by Dr. George Papanicolaou, which analyzed the collected cells from the cervix under a microscope. This test succeeded in reducing the death rate by cervical cancer by almost half.

Even today, the deaths are prevented by regular testing and following an effective treatment plan. It takes many years to turn normal cells into cancer cells hence regular screenings are important either by HPV or Pap test or in some cases both.

The risk factors in your life may increase the chances of cervical cancer. These risks are smoking, being exposed to the drug that prevents miscarriage, weak immune system, sexually transmitted disease infections, having sex from an early age, and have had or have multiple partners. Here are some early warning signs of cervical cancer you need to look out for.

Age
This cancer is not seen in women younger than 20 years and is a part of the midlife crisis. The risk also exists for women as they continue to age. 15% of the cases happen in women over 65 years of age. Women are more likely to develop this disease than men.

Sexual contact
Sexual contact is known to spread human papillomavirus (HPV) that causes cervical cancer. Most of the infection is fought by the antibodies before it can lead to cancer. There is a chance of HPV that causes cervical cancer if you have HIV, use birth control pills for a long time, have many children, and if you smoke. Young women and girls should get themselves vaccinated against HPV. The vaccine is very effective if you get it before you become sexually active, that is after the ages of 11 to 25.

Other early warning signs of cervical cancer
Other signs also include back pain or swelling in the legs; diarrhea, pain or bleeding from the rectum after defecation; difficulty in urinating, or blood in the urine; swollen abdomen, feeling sick or nausea, vomiting, and constipation.

You need to be aware of some other signs that indicate cervical cancer. Initially, it may not cause any symptoms but later on, you may experience vaginal bleeding or pelvic pain. The signs include pelvic pain, pain during sex, unusual discharge from the vagina, heavy and long menstrual periods, bleeding after pelvic examination, bleeding between periods, bleeding after douching, intercourse and menopause.

These symptoms may not indicate cervical cancer; it can just be an infection; hence, it is necessary to meet your doctor or healthcare official to get proper diagnosis and treatment.

There are other risk factors which may increase your chances of getting cervical cancer like having sexually transmitted disease, a weak immune system while suffering from HIV/AIDS, smoking, having multiple sexual partners, and low socioeconomic status.

Screening for cervical cancer is confusing, as a yearly checkup is no longer promoted by healthcare officials. However, your age, personal history, lifestyle and risk factors dictate that you should take a yearly test.