Cervical cancer: The signs and symptoms

The symptoms of cervical cancer aren't always obvious and it may not cause any symptoms at all until it has reached an advanced stage.

This is why it is very important for you to attend your cervical screening appointments, so that any cell changes can be picked up as early as possible.

However, the NHShave revealed that there are some recognised symptoms associated with cervical cancer.

These include:

In most cases, vaginal bleeding is the first noticeable symptom of cervical cancer. It usually occurs after having sex.

Remember: Bleeding at any time, other than your expected monthly period, is always considered unusual. This includes bleeding after the menopause.

If you have any type of vaginal bleeding, then book an appointment with your GP and ask for advice.

It's normal and healthy to produce a clear or white discharge from your vagina.

However any sudden changes to this - such as a sudden bad smell or a change in colour - is definitely worth talking over with your GP or nurse.

There are many other conditions that can cause these symptoms, but it’s important that you see your GP or practice nurse to get them checked out.

It can be embarrassing to talk about these symptoms, but the sooner you see someone and a diagnosis is made, the better the chance of treatment being successful.

As well as those listed above, undetected cervical cancer can develop and cause further symptoms.

These include:

Please do visit your GP if you are concerned about any of the above, even if you are attending regular screenings.

You can find out more about cervical cancer on the NHS website.

You can also ask questions by calling theJo’s Cervical Cancer Trust helpline or find women going through similar experiences on their online forum.