How Cervical Malignancies Can Pose Serious Risk To A Woman's Health

The well-being of a woman's fertility could be significantly affected by the health of her cervix. The cervix, which connects the vagina and uterus, serves important functions. It produces a mucus-like substance to assist in conception during the menstrual cycle and opens during childbirth to allow the baby to pass through.

Various medical conditions can impact cervical health and potentially reduce fertility rates: For example, cervicitis, a bacterial infection of the cervix, can lead to symptoms such as milky discharge, bleeding upon touching the cervix, and urinary tract infections. Polyps are small, non-cancerous growths that can develop on the lining of the cervix. If these growths become large enough, they can hinder the ability of sperm to enter the uterus. Dysplasia refers to the abnormal growth of cells in the cervical area, which, although non-cancerous, could be a precursor to cervical cancer. Eversion happens when cells from the inner endocervical canal move to the outer ectocervix, increasing the risk of infection and potentially leading to cervical erosion.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) transmitted through sexual contact can have a negative impact on the cervix and a woman's ability to conceive. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is particularly concerning as it has been linked to various forms of cervical cancer. Lastly, cancer is the most serious cervical disorder and occurs when cervical cells become malignant and multiply rapidly. Cervical malignancies not only affect conception but also pose a significant risk to a woman's health and life.

Signs of Cervical Conditions and Their Impact on Fertility

There are specific warning signs that may indicate the presence of a cervical condition and should prompt a visit to the doctor. These signs include abnormal Bleeding: Unusual vaginal bleeding before or after a menstrual period, or excessive bleeding during menstruation, could be a sign of a cervical issue. Some cervical disorders can cause vaginal dryness, burning, and pain, especially during sexual intercourse. Unusual or unexpected vaginal secretions may be an indication of a cervical illness. In certain cases, such as infection or the spread of cancer, other organs may also be affected. Therefore, symptoms like back and abdominal pain or changes in urinary habits may also occur.

Preventing cervical health issues and preserving fertility

It is recommended that women, particularly those of childbearing age, undergo regular medical checkups at least once a year. Experts can conduct Pap smears and HPV tests by collecting cells from the cervix for analysis in a laboratory to detect any abnormalities. If testing shows no presence of HPV, women are advised to receive the Gardasil vaccine. Studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in preventing specific strains of HPV linked to cervical cancer. Using condoms and contraceptives can reduce the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases, thereby safeguarding women's reproductive health.

The treatment

Women with cervical issues may be treated with antibiotics or antifungal preparations to address infections or STDs. Surgical procedures, such as cauterization or cryosurgery, may be necessary for severe infections, eversion, polyps, or cancer. In some cases, additional treatments like chemotherapy or radiation may also be required based on the severity and location of the malignancy.

Authored by Dr Karishma Dafle, Fertility Consultant, Nova IVF Fertility, Pune