Can Cervical Cancer Symptoms Be Mistaken for Common Infections?

When you experience unusual changes in your body like abnormal vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, or spotting between periods, it’s natural to assume it could be a common infection.  

Common infections like urinary tract infections (UTIs), yeast infections, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are widespread and harmless when treated early. However, such symptoms can also mean you might have cervical cancer. It is important to understand the difference between the two for early detection and timely treatment. 

What is Cervical Cancer? 

Cervical cancer begins in the cells lining the cervix - the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. You start seeing precancerous changes known as dysplasia. Over time these abnormal cells can turn cancerous if not treated. 

Though cervical cancer is preventable and treatable in its early stages, it's still one of the most common cancers among women in India. 

Causes and Risk Factors of Cervical Cancer 

Let’s understand some of the risk factors and causes of cervical cancer: 

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection: 

Persistent infection with high-risk HPV types is the primary cause of cervical cancer. 

Smoking: 

Tobacco use increases the risk by damaging the DNA of cervix cells and weakening the immune system. 

Immunosuppression: 

Conditions like HIV/AIDS or medications that suppress the immune system can increase the risk of cancer.  

Early Sexual Activity and Multiple Partners: 

These factors increase the likelihood of HPV exposure. 

What Are the Symptoms of Cervical Cancer? 

Cervical cancer symptoms are often misunderstood. Let's dive deeper to understand what each of them means:  

Light bleeding after sexual intercourse – 

One of the earliest and most common signs. 

Spotting between menstrual periods – 

This can be mistaken for irregular periods. 

Watery or unusual vaginal discharge – 

Sometimes with a foul odor. 

Pelvic pain – 

Can be mild or severe and may not be constant. 

Pain during intercourse – 

May feel like deep vaginal discomfort. 

Bleeding after menopause – 

A definite red flag that should never be ignored. 

Which Infections Share Similar Symptoms with Cervical Cancer? 

This is where you are confusion begins. Many infections can mimic cervical cancer symptoms. UTIs can cause pelvic pain and frequent urination. Yeast infections can lead to thick discharge and itching. STIs like HPV, chlamydia, and gonorrhea cause abnormal bleeding and discomfort during sex. Even bacterial vaginosis has similar symptoms to cervical cancer. 

How to Differentiate Between Cervical Cancer and Common Infections? 

Now, let’s understand the key differences between the cervical cancer symptoms and other common infections: 

Factor 

Cervical Cancer 

Common Infections (UTIs, Yeast, BV, STIs) 

Symptom Duration 

Persistent and worsen over time. 

Temporary and usually resolves with treatment. 

Response to Treatment 

Does not improve with antibiotics or antifungals. 

Improves quickly with the correct medication. 

Key Warning Signs 

- Bleeding after intercourse 

- Bleeding during menopause 

- Pelvic pain that lingers 

- Itching 

- Burning during urination 

- Odor or irritation 

Nature of Pain 

Can cause deep pelvic or lower back pain. It can be constant or recurring. 

Localized discomfort (itching, burning, soreness) 

Discharge Characteristics 

Watery, possibly foul-smelling, sometimes blood-tinged. 

Thick (yeast), fishy (BV), or pus-like (STI); varies by infection. 

Tests Required 

Pap smear, HPV test, colposcopy, biopsy 

Vaginal swab, urine test, STI panel 

When to Seek Further Testing 

If symptoms last more than 2–3 weeks or don’t respond to treatment. 

Typically resolved after a standard course of medication. 

Treatment Options for Cervical Cancer 

Treatment depends on the cancer stage, size, patient's age, and desire to preserve fertility: 

Surgery: 

There are three type of surgeries that are performed. One is conization (removal of a section of abnormal tissue), hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) and trachelectomy (removal of the cervix and preserving the uterus). 

Radiation Therapy: 

High-energy rays target and kill cancer cells; often combined with chemotherapy. 

Chemotherapy: 

Use of drugs to kill cancer cells; can be systemic or localized. 

Targeted Therapy: 

Drugs like bevacizumab target specific pathways that cancer cells use to grow. 

Immunotherapy: 

Medications such as pembrolizumab enhance the immune system's ability to fight cancer.  

How to prevent Cervical Cancer? 

Vaccination is one of the most effective to prevent cervical cancer before an individual becomes sexually active. The most popular vaccine for cervical cancer is HPV. Both boys and girls can be vaccinated against HPV.  

Other precautions you can take to reduce your risk of HPV and cervical cancer are:  

• Have a limited number of sexual partners 
• Always use protection when you have vaginal, oral, or anal sex 
• Regular PAP smear test by a gynaecologist is necessary once a woman is sexually active. 

Conclusion 

Cervical cancer is common, but the symptoms are similar to that of regular infections, and many don’t understand if they have it. When in doubt, consult your doctor at the earliest and get yourself tested. You can consult with specialized doctors at Hinduja Hospital, Mahim, Mumbai to get the right treatment at the right time. 

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs) 

Q1. What is often mistaken for cervical cancer? 

Cervical cancer symptoms are similar to other common infections among women which leads to confusion. Signs like abnormal bleeding, vaginal discharge and back pain can be for other medical conditions also other than cervical cancer. 

Q2. How do I make sure I don't have cervical cancer? 

Regular Pap smears and HPV tests, starting at age 21, are key to early detection. Also, to prevent cervical cancer, you must take the HPV vaccine. It offers the most protection before someone becomes sexually active. 

Q3. What is the age limit for the cervical cancer vaccine? 

The ideal age to start the HPV vaccine (cervical cancer vaccine) is between 9 to 12 years. It is recommended to give the follow-up doses by the age of 26.