What Causes Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, but it is highly preventable. Early screening, vaccination, and early detection are all important for successful treatment and potential prevention of cervical cancer. This cancer, which begins in the cells of the cervix, is almost always caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Cervical Cancer Symptoms

In the beginning stages, there may not be any signs of cervical cancer. As it progresses, however, cervical cancer can cause various symptoms, including vaginal bleeding after intercourse, unusual menstrual bleeding, watery, bloody vaginal discharge with a foul odor, or pelvic pain. Because symptoms don’t always appear before the cancer has spread, it is important to have regular checkups that include a pap smear, as well as taking other steps to protect yourself.

A woman gazes at a computer displaying information on cervical cancer prevention in San Diego, CA

Cancer Prevention: Protecting Yourself from Cervical Cancer

While cervical cancer was once a leading cause of death for women, today we know how to protect women from this disease. There are many different ways to reduce your risk of cervical cancer. Not smoking reduces your risk by half, and using condoms can help prevent the spread of HPV and other sexually transmitted infections. Regular checkups can catch symptoms early, but perhaps the most effective way to protect yourself is to get the HPV vaccine.

What is HPV and How is it Transferred?

HPV is a very common virus, and affects most sexually active people at some point. It is passed through intimate contact, including intercourse and oral sex, and has many different strains. Some of these strains cause genital warts, while others can cause cervical and other cancers. Fortunately, most HPV is cleared by the immune system within a year or two. It’s only the long-lasting infections that result in cancer. While HPV is most commonly associated with cervical cancer, it can also cause cancers of the tongue, throat, penis, vagina, and anus, making HPV vaccination important for both males and females. According to the CDC, vaccination against HPV can prevent over 90 percent of the cancers it causes.

The Importance of Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer, like most other cancers, is best treated when it is caught early. Because it doesn’t always have symptoms early on, cervical cancer is best detected through screenings. That’s why cancer screening, for cervical cancer and other cancers, is vital. Women should begin getting pap smears at age 21, screening for cervical cancer regardless of whether they choose to receive the HPV vaccine. These screenings should be repeated at least every three to five years, or as recommended by the woman’s healthcare provider.

Visit Advanced Functional Medicine for Comprehensive Women’s Healthcare

At Advanced Functional Medicine, we provide integrated, holistic care for women’s bodies and minds, offering solutions for female reproductive health and caring for women’s minds and bodies instead of simply treating symptoms. Our whole body approach to medicine utilizes all-natural, researched-based nutritional approaches to optimize the body’s natural healing abilities, rather than just using medication to treat symptoms. While women often face challenges when seeking healthcare, we emphasize the entire mind and body, offering complete care for females. No matter where you are in your reproductive journey, we will provide you with the comprehensive care you need to thrive. To schedule an appointment or learn more about how we can help restore your health and strengthen your body’s unique physiological functions, call 858-500-5572 or contact us through our website.