Many women do not experience any symptoms of cervical cancer initially. However, in a few others, the signs show in initial stages. When cancer aggravates, the symptoms become more severe, depending on the organ or tissue the cancer has spread to. Below is a list of some early warning signs and symptoms of cervical cancer. If you are experiencing any of these, then you must immediately seek medical help.  

• Pelvic pain
  Pelvic pain or lower backache is often associated with issues in reproductive organs. However, if the pain is persistent and does not seem to go away even after rest, then it can be a symptom of cervical cancer. If pain is felt around the appendix, then it could mean that cancer has reached an advanced stage.

• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
  If the discharge has a foul smell and is watery or brown, then it can be a warning sign of cervical cancer . You need to be watchful, and check whether the vaginal discharge is milky white or clear, or completely foul-smelling. Abnormal discharge is common in some women and might not be a symptom of cancer. So, it is best to visit a doctor and seek medical assistance.

• Exhaustion
  Tiredness, fatigue, and exhaustion are symptoms associated with various health issues. In our routine life, if the tiredness comes and goes, then it should not be a concern. However, if the exhaustion does not seem to go away even after proper rest, then you should visit a doctor.

• Incomprehensible weight loss
  As is the case with many types of cancer, in cervical cancer, too, women might experience sudden weight loss. It might also be followed by a reduced hunger drive.

• Painful intercourse
  When the tumor grows around the cervical tissue, it might lead to painful sex for women. However, bleeding or pain during intercourse may be a sign associated with other common problems, such as cervical inflammation, a polyp growth on the cervix, or vaginal infection.

• Swelling or pain in the leg
  Swelling or pain in the leg is also a symptom of cervical cancer. However, it is not an early warning sign, and usually occurs only when the cancer is in a later stage.
• Abnormal pap smear
  Although an abnormal pap smear can be a sign of cervical cancer, not every cell abnormality present in your cervix indicates cervical cancer. So, in this case, your doctor may recommend further tests.

If you notice these early warning signs and symptoms, then visit a doctor immediately and take effective treatment measures.