A malignant growth of the cells of the cervix is commonly called cervical cancer. The lower portion of the uterus is called the cervix, and it is connected to the vagina. This infection can be sexually transmitted with the spread of the human papillomavirus (HPV). It is found to be one of the most common causes of cervical cancer. Herein, we discuss the early warning signs and symptoms, types, and prevention of cervical cancer.

Types of Cervical Cancer
The two major types of cervical cancer are

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma
  It originates in the squamous cells, which form a lining on the external surface of the cervix that leads itself inside the vagina. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type of cervical cancer.

• Adenocarcinoma
  Adenocarcinoma is detected in the glandular cells that are present outside the cervical canal.

Symptoms
When it comes to the early warning signs and symptoms of cervical cancer, there are no prominent indications. The symptoms are seen in the advanced stages. Some of the most commonly observed early warning signa and symptoms of cervical cancer are:

• Bleeding in the vagina after intercourse, post-menopause, or between periods.
• Heavy and foul discharge from the vagina.
• Pain in the pelvic region during or after intercourse.

Risk Factors
Certain factors make one more susceptible to cervical cancer. They include

• Sexually Transmitted Infections
  Those already suffering from some kind of sexually transmitted infection like syphilis, chlamydia, or HIV/AIDS will be at a greater risk of suffering from cervical cancer.

• Low Immunity
  Suffering from a health condition or disease can prove detrimental to the immune system. If the immune system is already very weak, on account of suffering from a medical condition in the past, it will be difficult to combat cervical cancer.

• Smoking
  Smoking is one of the most common causes of squamous cell carcinoma and is a major culprit when it comes to cervical cancer.

• Early Sex
  Having intercourse at an age below the age of maturity increases the chance of an individual suffering from cervical cancer.

Preventive Measures
These measures will help one avoid the early warning signs and symptoms of cervical cancer:

• Consult a Doctor
  One can reach out to a doctor and asking for a vaccination to protect against the risk of being infected by human papillomavirus (HPV). If the doctor recommends it, they can take an HPV vaccine.

• Pap Test
  The Pap test is a diagnostic procedure that helps in detecting whether a person is suffering from cervical cancer. Those 21 years of age or older are recommended to undergo Pap tests at regular intervals.

• Safe Sex
  One must be aware of sexually transmitted infections and diseases and take precautionary measures to safeguard oneself against them. It’s important for one to carry protection and ask their partner to follow all precautionary measures as well.

• Don’t Smoke
  Do not pick up the habit of smoking. Apart from several other health hazards, it exposes one to the risk of suffering from cervical cancer. Smokers must make efforts to stop the habit.