What is Cervical Cancer?
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Cervical cancer is a malignant tumor that forms in the cells of the cervix—the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It usually develops slowly and is almost always linked to persistent infection with high-risk
human papillomavirus (HPV).
What Causes Cervical Cancer? (HPV and Risk Factors)
The primary cause is long-term infection with high-risk HPV types, especially:
Most HPV infections go away on their own, but if the virus stays in the cervix, it can cause precancerous changes that may turn into cancer over time.
Types of Cervical Cancer
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (most common – ~70–80%)
Starts in the flat cells on the outer surface of the cervix.
- Adenocarcinoma
Begins in the glandular cells lining the cervical canal.
- Adenosquamous or Mixed Carcinoma
Contains features of both types.
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer in Women
Early cervical cancer often has no symptoms. As it progresses, symptoms may include:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding (after sex, between periods, after menopause)
- Watery or bloody vaginal discharge
- Pelvic or back pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Leg swelling, urinary problems, or fatigue in advanced stages
Cervical Cancer Treatment Options in Lucknow
Treatment depends on stage, tumor size, and whether the patient wishes to preserve fertility:
1. Early-stage (I–IIA)
- Surgery (e.g., hysterectomy, trachelectomy for fertility preservation)
- Radiation therapy, often with chemotherapy (chemo-radiation)
2. Locally advanced (IIB–IVA)
- Concurrent chemoradiation (external beam radiation + brachytherapy + cisplatin-based chemo)
3. Advanced/metastatic (IVB)
- Chemotherapy (e.g., cisplatin + paclitaxel)
- Targeted therapy (e.g., bevacizumab)
- Immunotherapy (e.g., pembrolizumab if PD-L1 positive)
Radiation Therapy for Cervical Cancer in Lucknow
- External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) – targets the pelvis.
- Brachytherapy – internal radiation delivered directly into or near the cervix.
- Critical for curative treatment in most patients.
- Delivers high dose to the tumor while sparing surrounding tissue.
How Cervical Cancer Progresses
Cervical cancer develops slowly over years:
- HPV infection
- Cervical cell changes (dysplasia / CIN)
- Pre-cancer (CIN 1–3)
- Invasive cervical cancer
Prevention of Cervical Cancer
- HPV vaccination (e.g., Gardasil 9) – ideally before becoming sexually active
- Regular screening tests Pap smear and HPV testing
- Safe lifestyle safe sex practices, avoiding smoking
Why Choose Dr. Resham Srivastava for Cervical Cancer Treatment in Lucknow
Dr. Resham Srivastava is a Senior Consultant in Radiation Oncology at Medanta Hospital, Lucknow, with extensive experience in treating cervical and other cancers. She specializes in advanced radiation techniques such as image-guided therapy and brachytherapy, ensuring effective treatment with minimal side effects.
Patients choose Dr. Resham for:
- Expert guidance in all stages of cervical cancer
- Access to advanced technology and modern equipment
- Personalized, patient-centric care and counseling
- Comprehensive treatment under one roof at Medanta Hospital
Book Appointment
If you or your loved one is looking for cervical cancer treatment in Lucknow, you can book a consultation with Dr. Resham Srivastava at Medanta Hospital. Early detection and the right treatment can save lives.