Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. 

Still, it continues to be one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in India. 

The main reason is that many women either don’t know about screening or delay getting tested.

The good news is that cervical cancer develops slowly. Regular cancer screening by an expert gynecologist in Mumbai can detect early changes in the cervix, even before it becomes cancer.

Many women feel shy or nervous about getting screened, but the tests are simple, quick, and life-saving.

In this article, we’ll explain what causes cervical cancer, how screening works, what symptoms to watch for, and why regular check-ups are essential for every woman — even if you feel completely healthy.

Because when it comes to cancer, taking action early is always better than waiting for symptoms.

What Causes Cervical Cancer?

The most common cause of cervical cancer is a virus called HPV, short for Human Papillomavirus.

It spreads through sexual contact and is very common. In most cases, the virus goes away on its own.

But in some women, it can stay in the body and lead to changes in the cervix over time.

These changes can eventually turn into cancer if they are not found and treated early.

Not all types of HPV are dangerous, but a few high-risk types are known to cause most cervical cancer cases.

Other factors that may increase the risk include:

• Early age of sexual activity
• Multiple sexual partners
• Smoking
• Weak immune system
• Poor menstrual hygiene

The important thing to know is that cervical cancer does not develop suddenly. It takes years to grow. That’s why regular cancer screening can help catch it early and stop it before it becomes serious.

Why Screening Is Important

Cervical cancer often starts without any symptoms. By the time signs appear, the disease may already be in an advanced stage. 

This is why screening is so important, even if you feel completely healthy.

Screening helps detect early changes in the cervix before they turn into cancer. These changes can be treated easily and completely if caught on time.

Regular screening has helped reduce cervical cancer cases in many countries. In India, awareness is still growing, and more women need to make screening a part of their routine health check-ups.

The screening process is:

• Quick (usually takes less than 10 minutes)
• Painless or mildly uncomfortable
• Available at most gynaecology clinics

Even one simple test every few years can protect you from something serious later.

Next, we’ll look at the main screening tests available for cervical cancer.

What Screening Tests Are Available?

There are two main tests used to screen for cervical cancer. Both are safe, simple, and take only a few minutes.

1. Pap Smear (Pap Test)

This test checks for abnormal cells in the cervix that could turn into cancer.

• Usually recommended every 3 years starting from age 25 or after becoming sexually active.
• The doctor collects a small sample of cells from the cervix using a soft brush.
• It’s not painful, though it may feel slightly uncomfortable for a few seconds.

2. HPV Test

This test checks for the presence of high-risk HPV types that can lead to cervical cancer.

• Often done along with a Pap smear or as a follow-up if Pap results are unclear.
• Recommended every 5 years for women above 30, depending on your doctor’s advice.

Who should get screened?

• Women aged 25 to 65, especially those who are or have been sexually active.
• Women with no symptoms — screening is still necessary.
• Even if you’ve had the HPV vaccine, you should still go for regular tests.

These tests can detect early problems before they become serious. If results are normal, you don’t need to repeat them for a few years. If something is found early, treatment is usually simple and effective.

Next, we’ll go over warning signs you should never ignore. Ready to continue?

Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Cervical cancer often shows no symptoms in its early stages.

But as it develops, some signs may appear. These symptoms are not always caused by cancer, but they should always be checked by a doctor.

• Here are some common warning signs:
• Bleeding between periods
• Bleeding after sexual intercourse
• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
• Unusual spotting or bleeding after menopause
• Pain during sex
• Ongoing lower back or pelvic pain

If you notice any of these changes, don’t ignore them or wait for them to go away. 

Many women delay getting help out of fear or discomfort, but early treatment is always easier and more effective.

Even if you have no symptoms at all, regular screening is still important.

Conclusion: One Simple Test Can Save Your Life

Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that can be prevented with regular screening and early treatment. 

You don’t have to wait for symptoms or feel something is wrong to take care of your health.

A simple Pap smear or HPV test, done once every few years, can give you peace of mind and protect your future.

If you’re feeling nervous or unsure, talk to a doctor you trust. Screening is quick, private, and easier than you might think.

If you’re looking for a gynecologist in Chembur West or Mumbai, and want expert, supportive care, Dr. Madhura Pophalkar offers safe and comfortable cervical cancer screening for women of all ages.

Book your appointment today and take one smart step toward protecting your health – because early action makes all the difference.