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Signs and symptoms

Often, especially in its early stages, cervical cancer has no symptoms and the only way to detect it is through regular Pap tests. The signs and symptoms of cervical cancer can also be caused by other health conditions. So, it is important that you have any unusual symptoms checked by a health care provider.

If you experience any of these symptoms, talk to your health care provider:

  • abnormal bleeding from the vagina
  • bleeding or spotting between regular periods
  • pain or bleeding after penetrative vaginal sex
  • periods that last longer and are heavier than normal
  • bleeding after menopause
  • clear, watery discharge, foul-smelling or more discharge from the vagina than normal
  • pain in the pelvis or lower back

Visit cancer.ca for more detailed information about the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer.