Stage 2 Cervical Cancer Symptoms: Early Warning Signs to Know

There are some stage 2 cervical cancer symptoms

Bleeding from the vagina that isn't normal

Unusual bleeding is one of the most common signs of stage 2 cervical cancer. Bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause is something that many women notice. This bleeding could be light or heavy. The tumor irritates the blood vessels and tissues around it, which is why it happens. If you bleed outside of your normal cycle, you should see a doctor.

Pain in the pelvis or lower back

Pain is another important sign. You might have a dull ache or sharp pain in your lower back or lower abdomen. This happens when the cancer pushes on nerves or tissues that are close by. At first, the pain may come and go, but as the disease gets worse, it may get worse. A lot of women think this pain is just regular menstrual pain, which is why it often goes unnoticed.

Pain During Sex

Some women hurt when they have sex. This happens because the cancer affects the cervix and makes the tissues sensitive or swell. If you feel pain or discomfort during sex, especially if it's your first time, you should pay attention. This is one of the first signs that something is wrong.

Vaginal discharge that isn't normal

A change in vaginal discharge is another common sign of stage 2 cervical cancer. The discharge could be watery, thick, or smell bad. There may be small amounts of blood in it at times. These changes happen because the tumor damages tissues and makes fluid. You shouldn't ignore a discharge that is different from what you usually have.

Longer or Heavier Periods

Some women notice that their periods are longer or heavier. The tumor can change how the uterus and cervix work, which can change the flow of blood during your period. This could be a sign if your period changes suddenly and you don't know why.

Trouble Going to the Bathroom

In stage 2, the cancer may push on the bladder. This can make it hurt to pee, make you pee a lot, or make you feel like you can't fully empty your bladder. If the tumor gets big enough, it could even stop normal urine flow, which is painful and dangerous.

Tiredness and Weakness

Cancer takes energy from the body as it grows. Even if you haven't done a lot of work, this can make you feel tired. People with stage 2 cervical cancer get tired because their blood counts are low, their immune system is under stress, or they lose blood because of bleeding that isn't normal. A lot of women think this is just normal tiredness, but it needs to be checked if it keeps happening.

Legs that are swollen

One or both legs may swell up at times. When the tumor presses on the lymph nodes and stops the normal flow of fluid, this happens. Your legs may feel heavy or swollen. You should see a doctor right away if you have swelling and pain.

Hips or Legs Hurt

Some women feel pain that starts in the pelvic area and moves down to the hips or legs. This pain happens when cancer damages the nerves in that area. If you have hip or leg pain that doesn't go away and happens often, this is another sign to check.

Weight loss that doesn't make sense

Cervical cancer is one of many cancers that can cause weight loss without trying. When the body fights the tumor, it uses up more energy. Some women naturally lose their appetite, which makes them lose weight even faster. You should take any sudden or unexplained weight loss seriously.

Getting Full Quickly

The tumor can make it hard to digest food and make your stomach feel better. A woman might feel full even after eating a little bit. If this keeps happening, it could make you less hungry and tired. You shouldn't ignore feeling full quickly, especially if you have other symptoms.

How to Find Out If You Have Stage 2 Cervical Cancer

There are a few ways that doctors can confirm stage 2 cervical cancer. They might do a pelvic exam, a Pap test, a biopsy, or imaging tests like an MRI or CT scan. These tests help them figure out how far the cancer has spread and what kind of treatment will work best.

Having Stage 2 Cervical Cancer

This stage causes stress on both the body and the mind. Women may be scared, worried, or not sure what will happen next. Family and friends' support is very helpful. Getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying positive can help you get better faster. Being honest with your doctor and asking questions also helps you make the best choices.