Cervical Cancer

If you have been diagnosed with cervical cancer, be sure to follow your doctor's instructions about calling when you have problems, new symptoms, or symptoms that get worse.

If you are concerned about your symptoms and you may have an increased risk for cervical cancer, call your health professional if you have:

• Unexpected bleeding between menstrual periods.
• Menstrual periods that are irregular or 1½ to 2 times longer than normal for 3 months in a row. For example, if your menstrual periods usually last 6 days and then they last between 9 and 12 days for 3 months in a row, call your health professional.
• Severe menstrual bleeding that causes you to change a maxi-pad or super tampon every hour for longer than 8 hours.
• Unexpected bleeding after douching or sexual intercourse.
• Pain during sexual intercourse.
• Abnormal vaginal discharge containing mucus that may be tinged with blood.

Watchful Waiting

Regular Pap test screening is the most important tool in identifying and treating cervical cell changes before they progress to cervical cancer. After cervical cancer has been diagnosed, it should be treated. Watchful waiting is not appropriate.

Who To See

Health professionals who can evaluate your symptoms and your risk factors, and who can diagnose cervical cancer include:

• Gynecologists.
• Obstetricians.
• Family physicians.
• Nurse practitioners.
• Physician assistants.
• Internists.

Doctors who can manage your cancer treatment include:

• Gynecologists.
• Gynecological oncologists.
• Radiation oncologists.
• Medical oncologists.

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.