Cervical Cancer
There are many different types of HPV virus, and only a few are linked to the development of cervical cancer.
Overview
Cervical cancer is cancer that forms in a woman’s cervix, at the lower part of the uterus. It is caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV). This is a common virus that also causes genital warts. There are many different types of HPV virus, and only a few are linked to the development of cervical cancer.
There is now a vaccination that can protect against certain types of HPV, including most of those that cause cervical cancer. This has the potential to significantly reduce the number of women affected by cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is a serious medical condition that requires prompt attention and treatment.
Symptoms
You may have experienced abnormal vaginal bleeding or have an abnormal cervical pap smear.
The cervical cancer screening program is designed to identity pre-cancer and early cervical cancer, so it can be effectively treated before serious disease ensues.
Treatment
Treatment of cervical cancer requires a specialist in gynecologist cancers. This doctor is called a gynecology oncologist. The doctors at Central Gynaecology will liaise with the excellent team at Wellington Hospital for ongoing care.
Treatment depends on the extent of cancer. It may require surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiotherapy.
We can help
If you are experiencing bleeding after sex and would like to talk to us about how we can help, please feel free to contact us. You can also request an appointment online.
Further reading
Related conditions
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Commonly caused by hormone therapies, including oral contraceptives. Persistent bleeding may be due to genital tract infections, polyps, or cervical cancer.
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Another term for this is post-coital bleeding, and it usually occurs within 24 hours of intercourse. In most cases, it is nothing to worry about, but should be investigated if persistent or if you are concerned.
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A speculum is placed in the vagina, and the cervix visualised using a colposcope. This provides a magnified view of the cervix so that a targeted biopsy can be taken.