Cervical Cancer and Screening
Cervical cancer develops slowly in the cervix, the neck of the womb, almost always because of a long-lasting infection with a high-risk type of human papillomavirus (HPV). Before it becomes cancer it passes through precancerous changes that cause no symptoms but can be found by screening and treated simply. It is one of the leading cancers in Nigerian women, and most cases are diagnosed late, which is why regular screening and HPV vaccination save lives.
Find a Gynaecology SpecialistMedically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Usually no symptoms in the precancer and early stages
- Bleeding after sex
- Bleeding between periods or after menopause
- Unusual or offensive vaginal discharge
- Pelvic or back pain (later stages)
- Leg swelling or difficulty passing urine (advanced disease)
When to See a Doctor
Most guidelines advise screening for women from their mid-twenties or thirty until about 65: an HPV test every five years, or a Pap smear every three years. Women living with HIV start earlier and are screened more often. See a gynaecologist promptly for bleeding after sex, between periods or after menopause, whatever your last screening result was.
Treatment options
- Screening by HPV test, Pap smear or visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA)
- Colposcopy to examine the cervix closely after an abnormal result
- Treatment of precancer by LLETZ (LEEP), cryotherapy or thermal ablation
- Surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy for cancer, depending on the stage
- HPV vaccination for girls and young women
Common Questions
Does an abnormal Pap smear mean I have cancer?
No. Most abnormal results show HPV infection or early cell changes, not cancer. Some clear on their own; others are treated with a short outpatient procedure that prevents cancer from developing.
Is the HPV vaccine safe?
Yes. HPV vaccines have been given to many millions of girls worldwide with a strong safety record, and Nigeria added the vaccine to its routine programme for girls aged 9 to 14 in 2023. It works best before any sexual activity.
Does the screening test hurt?
It is usually uncomfortable rather than painful and takes a few minutes. A speculum is used to see the cervix and a small brush takes a sample. Some clinics offer self-sampling for the HPV test.
Need Help?
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