Four early signs of cervical cancer women often ignore

Around 250 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in Ireland every year

Being aware of the symptoms is so vital because it can help detect the disease early.

Anyone with a cervix who has had sexual contact with a man or woman can get cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer mostly affects women aged 30 to 50 who have ever been sexually active.

The issue with this type of cancer is the early symptoms mirror other health conditions.

The four early symptoms of cervical cancer include:

Abnormal bleeding

Abnormal or irregular bleeding can be a sign of cervical cancer, but it can also be a sign of other issues.

The HSE states, "Usual bleeding from your vagina is usually the first symptom you may notice."

This includes bleeding:

• outside of your normal periods
• during or after sex
• after you have been through menopause

Pain during sex

Another early sign of cervical cancer is feeling pain or discomfort during sex.

You may feel pain when you're having intercourse, whether it is severe or just a slight discomfort.

The HSE said the issue with this is many other conditions may cause discomfort during sex.

However, experts stressed that you should always seek medical attention if you're suffering from this as dismissing symptoms is extremely common in cervical cancer cases.

Tumours growing on tissues in and around the cervix will cause pain and discomfort during sex.

Pelvic and lower back pain

Experiencing pain in your lower back and pelvis is a symptom many people will experience during their period.

However, it is another sign of cervical cancer if you're also suffering from pain during sex, abnormal bleeding, and unusual discharge.

The pain may range from anywhere between your belly button and the top of your thighs.

Unusual discharge

Multiple issues can cause a change in the colour, consistency, or smell of discharge.

Normal discharge is often clear or white, and non-smelling.

However, it can change in thickness depending on the stage of your menstrual cycle.

Anything outside of this may be a sign of a health issue, including cervical cancer.

Women or anyone with a cervix should contact their GP if they're displaying any of the above symptoms.

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