As we progress through life, we often become more acutely aware of changes in our body, and are more likely to look out for early signs of health complications. Unfortunately though, there are many medical conditions, like cervical cancer, that have very few early symptoms until late stages, and that we need professional help to monitor.
Thanks to recent developments in medical science, and the wider availability of screenings, such as smear tests, it’s now easier for people to get a better understanding of their gynaecological health. So why do I need a smear test? It’s a good way for people to keep a close eye on any abnormalities, and in many cases, prevent cervical cancer from developing.
In this article, we’re going to help you get a better understanding of what cervical cancer is, how it’s diagnosed, and why regular smear tests are so important.
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancer diagnoses amongst women in the UK, with over 3,200 new cases each year.
The cervix is the lower part of the womb (uterus) that joins to the top of the vagina. It is sometimes called the neck of the womb. Cervical cancer develops slowly over time from abnormal cell changes in the cervix. These changes do not cause any symptoms, but can be easily detected using cervical screening tests. If abnormal cells are discovered early enough, then it’s possible to treat the cells before they become cancerous.
What causes cervical cancer?
Almost all cervical cancer is caused by Human papillomavirus (HPV) – a common infection which can affect the skin, genital area and throat. HPV is transmitted through sexual contact, including penetrative sex, oral sex, skin-to-skin contact with genitals, and contact with shared sex toys.
Most sexually active people get HPV at some point in their lives, usually without symptoms. In some cases, the HPV clears up quickly, with a little help from the body’s immune system. In other cases, the HPV is more persistent, causing abnormal cells to develop, and increasing the risk of cervical cancer.
What are the main types of cervical cancer?
There are two main types of cervical cancer. There is squamous cell carcinoma, which develops from a type of cell that covers the outside of the cervix, at the top of the vagina. There is also adenocarcinoma, which develops from a different type of cell, usually found in the cervical canal (the endocervix). There are also several other types of cervical cancer, which are much more rare. These include adenosquamous carcinoma, clear cell carcinoma, neuroendocrine carcinoma or small cell carcinoma of the cervix, lymphoma, and sarcoma.
What are the main symptoms of cervical cancer?
In the early stages of cervical cancer, there are often no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they often include:
- Unusual vaginal discharge: Vaginal discharge associated with cervical cancer is typically pale and watery. It can also have an unusual odour and look slightly bloody, pink, or brown.
- Heavy menstruation: Menstrual periods that are very heavy, or that last longer than usual, can sometimes be an early sign of cervical cancer.
- Bleeding at unexpected times: Abnormal vaginal bleeding that occurs between menstrual periods, after sexual intercourse, or after menopause can also sometimes be an early sign of cervical cancer.
In its later stages, cervical cancer can progress and spread to other areas, such as the vagina, bladder, lymph nodes, intestines, bones, lungs, and liver. At these stages, there are often more noticeable symptoms, such as pelvic pain, urine leakage, loss of appetite, and unintentional weight loss. There may also be other symptoms such as back pain, leg pain, leg swelling, bone pain, and fractures.
It’s important to keep in mind though that these symptoms could also indicate other conditions, such as infections or inflammation, which is why only a healthcare professional can provide an accurate cervical cancer diagnosis.
Why do I need a smear test?
A smear test, or cervical screening, is a simple test that checks for HPV infection. It also checks for changes in the cells covering the neck of your womb, to see if there are any abnormalities.
Commenting on the importance of smear tests, Dr Alex Eskander, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre, says: “Some people may feel nervous about coming for a smear test, which is understandable. It’s important to keep in mind though that smear tests do not look for the presence of cancer – they look for the HPV infection, and for precancerous abnormalities in the cells. They are preventative screening measures, designed to monitor your gynaecological health, and to help treat cell abnormalities before they turn into cervical cancer.”
How do you know when you need a smear test?
Smear tests are not mandatory, but they are generally recommended, especially for women in certain age groups. It’s important to get a smear test every three years from the age of 25, and every five years if you’re aged 50 to 64, where possible. It’s also important for women over 65 to have regular screenings if they have had abnormal test results in the past.
What happens if your smear test is positive?
Almost 90-94% of smear test results come back negative. Around 5% of smear test results come back ‘abnormal’. It’s important to keep in mind that even where test results show mild, moderate or severe abnormalities, it doesn’t mean that you have cancer. It means that you have precancerous abnormalities, which if left untreated can progress to cancer.
If you do have cell abnormalities, then it’s important to go for a follow-up investigation, also known as a colposcopy. This is a simple medical examination that involves using a microscope to further examine the cervix. It also sometimes involves taking a small biopsy. The colposcopy will enable your consultant to learn more about the abnormal cells, and if needed, recommend a treatment plan.
Why do I need a smear test?
As you now know, smear tests play an essential role in the early detection and treatment of abnormal, precancerous cells. For this reason, regular smear tests also play an important part in the early detection and prevention of cervical cancer.
At The Gynae Centre, smear tests are carried out by our expert gynaecology consultants, who have extensive experience in detecting cell abnormalities, and in diagnosing cervical cancer. This means that you get direct access to consultant-level support at your first appointment, as well as at follow-up consultations.
We also offer the full range of cervical screen services including smear tests, colposcopies. This means that, if you do receive a positive test result, you can also get immediate access to follow-up examination and treatment options. To find out more about cervical smears at The Gynae Centre, click here. Book your next smear test.
