What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is cancer in the cervix, the lower, narrow part of the uterus (womb). Various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, play a role in causing most cases of cervical cancer.
When exposed to HPV, a woman's immune system typically prevents the virus from doing harm. In a small group of women, however, the virus survives for years before it eventually converts some cells on the surface of the cervix into cancer cells. Half of cervical cancer cases occur in women between ages 35 and 55.
Women should get a Pap smear from a gynecology hospital every three years starting at age 21, or every five years with the combination of HPV testing and Pap smear starting at age 30.
What are the Symptoms of Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer may not show noticeable symptoms early on, underscoring the importance of regular screenings like Pap tests for early detection. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause; unusual vaginal discharge that may be watery, bloody, or have an odor; pelvic pain or discomfort in the lower back; painful urination; and difficulty or pain during bowel movements.
These symptoms can also stem from other conditions unrelated to cervical cancer, so seeking professional evaluation from a specialist in cervical cancer in the Philippines and regular screenings is crucial for accurate diagnosis and prevention.
The Endometrium, Cervix and Ovaries (ECO) Clinic
Our commitment to patient care extends to providing education and support services to empower individuals in understanding cervical cancer in the Philippines, its prevention, and the importance of regular screenings for early detection and prevention.
With a team of highly-skilled gynecologists and advanced technology, our cervical cancer hospital offers a range of services including:
1. Screening
We provide essential screening options for cervical cancer, including:
- Pap Smear: A Pap smear is a routine test that examines cells from the cervix to detect any abnormalities or precancerous changes.
- HPV Test: The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) test checks for the presence of high-risk HPV strains that are associated with cervical cancer. This test helps identify individuals at a higher risk of developing the disease.
2. Diagnosis
In the event of an abnormal screening result or symptoms suggestive of cervical cancer, our medical professionals employ various diagnostic techniques to determine the presence and extent of the disease. This may involve colposcopy, biopsy, and imaging tests.
3. Non-Invasive Treatment
The Medical City offers comprehensive treatment options for cervical cancer, tailored to the specific needs of each patient. Treatment modalities may include Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP), cryosurgery, hysterectomy, or a combination of these approaches. Our dedicated team of oncologists, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals work collaboratively to provide individualized treatment plans.
4. Invasive Cervical Cancer Treatment
In cases where cervical cancer has progressed to an invasive stage, specialized treatment options are available. These may include radical hysterectomy, external beam radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or brachytherapy to manage symptoms and enhance quality of life.