Cervical cancer refers to the growth of abnormal cells in the cervix. This type of cancer is more common among women over the age of 35. The good news is that this type of cancer can be prevented and treated. To seek treatment, it is important to recognize the early warning signs and symptoms of cervical cancer. Here are some of the common signs to be aware of.

Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
This is one of the most common early warning signs and symptoms of cervical cancer. It is usually seen after the cancerous cells spread to other healthy tissue. This is not the same as spotting. It can be characterized by heavier or longer periods, bleeding between periods, bleeding after intercourse or a pelvic exam and vaginal bleeding after experiencing menopause.

Foul Vaginal Discharge
If the cancer cells do not receive enough oxygen, some of the cells may die. This can cause an infection in the tumor that, in turn, causes a foul vaginal discharge. This may be watery, pale, brownish or even have blood mixed with it.

Painful Intercourse
Pain during sexual intercourse is one of the common early warning signs and symptoms of cervical cancer. This is typically experienced when a tumor becomes big and affects the tissues and other parts of the reproductive system.

Painful Urination
When cervical cancer spreads to the other organs, it can make urination difficult and painful. It may also cause bloody urine.

Pain in the Lower Back
Pain in the pelvic area or lower back is often linked to cervical cancer. This pain is usually experienced as chronic pain. It is not always one of the early warning signs and symptoms of cervical cancer and may be experienced only when the cancer has reached a more advanced stage. There are a number of other red flags that can be recognized before this.

Pain in the Legs
As the cancer grows, it affects not only the reproductive organs but may also affect the nervous tissue in the pelvic wall. This can cause pain and swelling in the legs.

Unexplained Loss of Weight
This early warning sign and symptoms of cervical cancer is also common with many other types of cancer. One may experience a loss of appetite. In addition, irrespective of how much food is consumed, the person may still lose weight.

Tiredness
The cancer may also cause excessive fatigue. It can make you feel tired even without exerting too much physical effort.

Diarrhea
When the cancer spreads to other organs in the pelvic area, it can cause issues such as diarrhea. It may also make going to the toilet painful and trigger bleeding from the rectum. Cervical cancer may also cause abdominal bloating and constipation.

If one notices any of the early warning signs and symptoms of cervical cancer, they should consult a gynecologist at the earliest and get a pap smear test.