Cervical cancer is a tumour of the cervix which connects the vagina and uterus. Most cases of cervical cancer occur due to infection by the human papilloma virus (HPV).

Having multiple sex partners, indulging in sexual activity at an early age, smoking, exposure to miscarriage preventing drugs, having a weak immune system greatly increases the risk of suffering from cervical cancer.

In the early stages, cervical cancer may be asymptomatic. Common symptoms include vaginal bleeding before or after menopause and during sexual intercourse or after. The patient may experience pain during intercourse and watery, bloody and foul-smelling discharge may be observed.

Cervical cancer can be prevented by going for regular pap smears, getting vaccinated against HPV after consulting a doctor and employing safe sexual practices.

Cervical cancer can be diagnosed by examination of the cervix. A sample of the cells can be taken by performing a punch biopsy or an endometrial curettage. If the results of these tests are suggestive of cervical cancer, the doctor may recommend an electric wire loop test or a cone biopsy by which deeper layers of cells can be obtained for further observation.