What Are the Early Symptoms of Cervical Cancer Related to Cervical Erosion?

Severe cervical erosion can potentially develop into cervical cancer, which is a relatively common malignant disease in gynecology. The early symptoms of cervical cancer are often subtle and may resemble some symptoms of cervical erosion, leading many people to overlook the abnormal signs presented by cervical cancer. However, these symptoms can also serve as a clinical basis for diagnosis and treatment. So, what are the early symptoms of cervical cancer?

1. Vaginal Bleeding: The main symptom for younger patients is vaginal bleeding, usually contact bleeding. This bleeding can occur during sexual activity, during gynecological examinations, or after defecation. The amount of bleeding can vary depending on the size of the cancerous lesion and whether it has invaded surrounding blood vessels. In early stages, when the lesion is small and has not invaded major blood vessels, the bleeding is relatively minor. However, in later stages, when the lesion is larger, it can manifest as heavy bleeding, especially if it has invaded larger blood vessels, which can be life-threatening.

2. Vaginal Discharge: Cervical cancer patients may notice a white or bloody, watery discharge from their vagina, which may increase in quantity and have a fishy odor. In later stages, the discharge may contain mucus and become foul-smelling due to necrosis of surrounding tissue or secondary infection.

3. Pain in the Lower Abdomen or Lumbosacral Region: Pain in the lower abdomen and lumbosacral region is also an early sign of cervical cancer. Sometimes, the pain can radiate to the upper abdomen, thighs, and hips, and it may worsen during menstruation, defecation, or sexual activity. When the inflammation spreads along the uterine sacral ligaments or the broad ligament, it can cause chronic inflammation of the parauterine connective tissue and thickening of the cervical ligaments, leading to increased pain. Touching the cervix may immediately cause pain in the iliac fossa and lumbosacral region, and some patients may even experience nausea and other symptoms that affect their quality of life. It is important to take these symptoms seriously and seek medical attention promptly.

4. Masses: When the tumor is small, it is usually undetectable by self-examination. The ability to palpate a mass suggests that the tumor has already grown to a significant size. However, it is still better to be aware of the tumor's presence than to ignore it or be unaware of it altogether. Therefore, it is important to develop the habit of self-examination. In the morning, after emptying the bowels, lie flat on the bed with knees slightly bent and relax the abdomen. Then, use both hands to massage the lower abdomen, gradually increasing the pressure from light to deep. This can help detect any masses that may be present.