Cervical Cancer Symptoms

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Cervical cancer usually doesn’t cause symptoms early on. Neither does cervical dysplasia — abnormal cells on the surface of the cervix that may become cancer if not treated. Most people notice symptoms only after the cancer starts to spread.

The same signs or symptoms of cervical cancer may be caused by other conditions that aren’t cancer. If you have any signs or symptoms, let your primary care provider or gynecologist know. They can help you figure out the cause.

Take Charge of Your Health

Talk to your primary care provider if you have symptoms that you think may be cervical cancer. UW Medicine Primary Care can help you get started. Learn about Fred Hutch's relationship with UW Medicine.

Symptoms of Early Cervical Cancer

Early-stage (less advanced) cervical cancer may cause these symptoms:

  • Vaginal bleeding between periods, after vaginal sex, after douching or after menopause
  • Periods that are heavier or longer than is typical for you
  • Vaginal discharge that is unusual, such as watery, includes blood or has a strong smell
  • Pain in the pelvic area
  • Pain during vaginal sex

Symptoms of Advanced Cervical Cancer

If cancer has spread from the cervix to other parts of the body, symptoms may include:

  • Problems passing urine or having bowel movements
  • Bleeding from the rectum during a bowel movement
  • Blood in the urine
  • Dull backache
  • Swollen legs
  • Belly pain
  • Fatigue

Cervical Cancer Symptoms FAQ

Often, cervical cancer has been developing for a while and is advanced before a woman has any signs or symptoms that might cause her concern. This is one reason it’s important to have screenings — tests to check for cervical cancer even when you don’t have any signs or symptoms. About 90% of women whose cervical cancer was detected by a screening (Pap test) will survive. The figure is much lower — 40% percent — for women whose cancer was not diagnosed until they had abnormal vaginal bleeding.

Your health care provider will ask you about your symptoms, your health history and your family history. They may ask about factors that might put you at risk for cancer or other conditions that might cause the same symptoms. They’ll examine you to check for clues about what’s been bothering you. Your provider will probably do a general physical exam and then a pelvic exam.

Based on your conversation and exam, your provider may order tests to get more information. Learn more about diagnosis. 

Often, there are no symptoms in stage I. That’s why having regular screening and Pap smears are so important. Early tests can detect precancerous conditions that often can be treated before cervical cancer develops.