So, what causes cervical cancer?
Human Papilloma Virus or HPV infection is the causal factor of cervical cancer. It is a sexually transmitted disease (STD), which means it is transmitted through body fluid while having unprotected sex. Rubbing of the private parts can also cause it. Most people never even know that they have HPV while having regular sex, and transmit it to the partners (men mostly act as carriers). It is only after years that the symptoms start showing up, and one becomes aware of it, but often that is too late. So, the only way out is screening at regular intervals. Who are at risk? • Women having sex with multiple partners • Women having sex at an early age • Women having multiple pregnancies • Women using oral contraceptives for 5 continuous years or more Consumption of tobacco enhances the risk of infection. When do you know you have cervical cancer what are the symptoms? • Painful urination • Pelvic pain • Unusual heavy discharge • Abnormal bleeding during and/or after intercourse, and between re
