Keeping Your Cervix Healthy

The cervical cancer develops in several stages. It starts with the no-symptom period followed by vaginal discharge, abnormal bleeding, and soreness. These symptoms are often overlooked as they can be caused by any other causes. On its advanced development, the cancer cells change and the more obvious symptoms start to show. The symptoms can be vaginal bleeding between periods or after sexual intercourse.

As explained by Prof. Suhatno, the cervical cancer survival rate based on the stage is 5 years.

The survival rate for stage 0 (pre-cancer), in which the cancer cells on the surface of the cervix is benign and small, may reach up to 100%.

On stage I, where the cancer cells are tightly attached to the wall of the cervix, the probability to recover is about 80%.

During stage II, in which the cancer has reached the uterus but not the vagina, the probability to recover is 50-60%.

On stage III, where the cancer has spread to the lower part of the vagina, the probability to recover is 20-30%.

When the cancer has spread to other organs such as anus, kidneys, lungs, liver, and bones on stage IV, the probability to recover is 0-5%.

However, an early detection can prevent the cervical cancer development. Our body can actually handle up to 70% of the infection, but when we have many sexual partners, there will be a variety of viruses. Consequently, our body will less likely to handle the infection properly.

The most important thing to do is to discipline ourselves to live a healthy lifestyle such as maintaining personal and environmental cleanliness, consuming nutrient-rich food, and not smoking. Wipe the genital area thoroughly with the toilet paper or change the underwear at least twice a day.

In addition to prevention, sexually active women need to have a Pap smear and visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) test as early detection measures, which are better conducted regularly once a year. If the positive indication of cervical cancer is suspected, enhance the diagnosis by taking a HPV-DNA test and colposcopy test. By taking the colposcopy test, the suspicious changes or pre-cancer condition can be detected. Therefore, the treatment can be conducted immediately to get the best result.