Cervical Cancer
When To Call a Doctor
If you have been diagnosed with cervical cancer, be sure to follow your doctor's instructions about calling when you have problems, new symptoms, or symptoms that get worse.
If you are concerned about your symptoms or if you think you have an increased risk for cervical cancer, call your health professional if you have:
- Unexpected bleeding between menstrual periods.
- Menstrual periods that are irregular or 1½ to 2 times longer than normal for 3 months in a row. For example, if your menstrual periods usually last 6 days and then they last between 9 and 12 days for 3 months in a row, call your doctor.
- Severe menstrual bleeding that causes you to change a maxi-pad or super tampon every hour for longer than 8 hours.
- Unexpected bleeding after douching or sexual intercourse.
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
- Abnormal vaginal discharge containing mucus that may be tinged with blood.
Watchful Waiting
Regular Pap test screening is the most important tool in identifying and treating cervical cell changes before they progress to cervical cancer. After cervical cancer has been diagnosed, it should be treated. Watchful waiting is not appropriate.
Who To See
Health professionals who can evaluate your symptoms and your risk factors, and who can diagnose cervical cancer include:
- Gynecologists.
- Obstetricians.
- Family physicians.
- Nurse practitioners.
- Physician assistants.
- Internists.
Doctors who can manage your cancer treatment include:
To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.
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| Author: | Bets Davis, MFA | Last Updated: September 5, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Kevin Holcomb, MD - Gynecologic Oncology | |
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