Cervical cancer often develops silently in its early stages, meaning you may not experience any symptoms until the disease has advanced. However, once it progresses, there are four main symptoms to be aware of.

Cervical cancer is among the most preventable types of cancer. The vast majority of cases are linked to certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can be prevented through vaccination.

Thanks to regular screening and early detection methods, many cervical cancer cases are identified before they become serious. However, this does not eliminate the risk entirely. In the United States, approximately 13,000 new cases are diagnosed annually, and more than 4,000 people die from the disease.

In most cases, early cervical cancer has no noticeable symptoms. The signs typically appear only when the condition becomes more advanced.

What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer occurs when cells on the cervix—the lower part of the uterus—undergo abnormal changes and begin to grow uncontrollably. Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by HPV, the most common sexually transmitted infection. Millions of people are infected with HPV, but most will clear the virus naturally within two years.

However, some HPV strains can persist and lead to cancer in areas such as the cervix, mouth, throat, anus, or penis.

Globally, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women. In the U.S., it used to be a leading cause of cancer death among women, but widespread screening has significantly reduced its occurrence.

The overall five-year survival rate for cervical cancer is around 67%, but if caught early, that rate increases to 92%. In later stages, treatment becomes more complex and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, or a combination of these.

Cervical cancer detection

Cervical cancer can be detected early with routine medical testing. A Pap smear is one of the most effective tools for identifying abnormal cells in the cervix, even before they become cancerous.

pap smear testing
A healthcare provider collects cells from your cervix and sends them to a lab for analysis. These tests can detect early signs of cancer or precancerous changes.

Unfortunately, self-diagnosis is not possible. Cervical cancer progresses gradually and quietly. Without regular screening, it's unlikely you’ll notice the disease until it has reached a more advanced stage.

Symptoms and signs of cervical cancer

Cervical cancer symptoms vary based on how far the disease has progressed.

Early warning signs

At the earliest stage, cervical cancer rarely causes symptoms. The lack of symptoms makes routine screening critical. Just because you feel fine doesn’t mean your cervix is healthy.

Once the cancer begins to spread, you may start to notice the following symptoms:

vaginal bleeding
Unusual bleeding may be a warning sign. This may include:

  • Bleeding or spotting between periods

  • Heavier or longer menstrual cycles

  • Bleeding after intercourse or pelvic exams

  • Bleeding after menopause

While abnormal bleeding isn’t always caused by cancer, it should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. Other conditions like STIs or endometriosis can also be responsible.

unusual vaginal discharge
It’s normal to have some vaginal discharge. However, certain changes could signal a problem, including:

  • Increased volume

  • Persistent discharge

  • Discharge with a foul odor, watery texture, or containing blood (may appear pink, red, or brown)

pelvic pain
This can feel like pressure, cramping, or bloating. The pain may be constant or come and go. While abdominal or pelvic pain has many potential causes, persistent discomfort should be checked by a healthcare professional.

pain during sex
Pain during intercourse might indicate the tumor is being touched or irritated. Other causes of painful sex include:

  • Infections

  • Endometriosis

  • Vaginal inflammation or scarring

  • Surgical complications

Regardless of the cause, it’s important to discuss this symptom with a healthcare provider.

Signs of more advanced cervical cancer

As cervical cancer spreads beyond the cervix, it can affect the vagina, lymph nodes, bladder, intestines, bones, lungs, or liver. Symptoms become more severe depending on which organs are involved. Advanced signs may include:

  • Back pain

  • Bone pain or fractures

  • Persistent fatigue

  • Leakage of urine or feces from the vagina

  • Pain or swelling in the legs

  • Appetite loss

  • Unintended weight loss

  • A single swollen leg

These symptoms could be linked to other health problems, but it's important to seek medical evaluation to determine the cause.

Preventing cervical cancer

You can significantly reduce your risk of cervical cancer through vaccination and regular health screenings.

get the HPV vaccine
The HPV vaccine protects against the strains of HPV that cause 90% of cervical cancers. It's approved for people of all sexes from ages 9 to 45. For the best protection, it should be given in two doses around age 12. People older than that may need a three-dose series.

Vaccination has already helped reduce cervical cancer rates significantly, especially among young women.

get your pap smear
Routine screening is essential in identifying precancerous changes before they develop into cancer. Current guidelines recommend:

  • Under 21: No screening required

  • Ages 21–29: Pap smear every three years

  • Ages 30–65: Choose between a Pap test every three years, an HPV test every five years, or both every five years

  • Over 65: No screening if recent tests were consistently normal

HPV testing is particularly helpful because the presence of the virus signals a need for closer monitoring. Your provider can help you determine which screening option is right for you.

A quick review

Cervical cancer is most commonly caused by HPV. Symptoms typically do not appear until the disease is more advanced. Early detection dramatically improves survival, with a 92% five-year survival rate when found early.

Routine Pap smears and HPV testing are critical for catching cervical cancer before it becomes dangerous. Be sure to speak with your provider about your screening schedule and any concerns you may have.