Women's Health: Gynecological Cancers
Cervical Cancer
How to Spot the Signs
There are over 3,300 new cervical cancer cases every year, with on average, 880 deaths annually. (Cancer Research UK, 2026)
Cervical Cancer is preventable, and here at 4ways, we feel that the best way to reduce your cervical cancer risk is to educate and inform women of the symptoms and potential danger it poses.
Cervical Cancer is found in the cervix, sometimes known as the ‘neck of the womb’. Nearly all cervical cancer cases are caused by an infection from certain types of HPV, ‘human papillomavirus’, (NHS, 2024).
There are two main types of cervical cancer:
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma – the most common. 80-90% of cervical cancers are this type.
- Adenocarcinoma – this type is around 10% of all cervical cancers.
There is another type of cervical cancer but it’s incredibly rare. Small Cell Cancer counts for about 5% of all cervical cancers.
Cervical Cancer Screening is offered to anyone with a cervix between the ages of 25-64 in the UK by the NHS. Cervical Screening saves over 2,000 lives every year. (Cancer Research UK, 2026)
Symptoms of cervical cancer include:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Changes to vaginal discharge
- Pain during sex
- Pain in your lower back, between your hip bones or in your lower abdomen
These symptoms do not always mean you have cervical cancer.
If you recognise any of these symptoms, it’s best to speak with your GP.
This article provides general information only and is not medical advice. If you have concerns about your health, please speak to a healthcare professional.
References
Cancer Research UK, 2026. Cervical Cancer Statistics. [Online]
Available at: https://bitly.cx/iTgz3
[Accessed 11th March 2026].
Cancer Research UK, 2026. Cervical Screening. [Online]
Available at: https://bitly.cx/iaU4y
[Accessed 11th March 2026].
NHS, 2024. Cervical Cancer. [Online]
Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cervical-cancer/what-is-cervical-cancer/
[Accessed 11th March 2026].
