What Is Cervical Cancer?

Causes, symptoms, prevention and screening

What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cervix, the opening between the vagina and the uterus. While cervical cancer can be serious, it is often preventable and treatable if detected early.

At Doctor Care Anywhere, we're here to help you explore what you need to know about cervical cancer, from symptoms to screening.

Woman sitting on a sofa holding her stomach in discomfort

Symptoms of cervical cancer

Early-stage cervical cancer often causes no symptoms at all, which is why regular cervical screening matters even when you feel well. When symptoms do occur, they can include:

  • Unusual vaginal bleeding, such as between periods, after sex, or after the menopause
  • Changes to vaginal discharge, such as an unusual smell or colour
  • Pain or discomfort during sex
  • Pelvic pain that isn't related to your period

These symptoms are common and are usually caused by something other than cancer, such as an infection or hormonal changes. However, it's always worth getting any of them checked by a GP or Advanced Clinical Practitioner, particularly if they're new, persistent, or unusual for you.

How to reduce your risk

There are several steps you can take to lower your risk of cervical cancer:

Get the HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine is offered to children aged 12 and 13 as part of the NHS vaccination programme. This vaccine protects against the high-risk types of HPV that are linked to cervical cancer.

Practise safe sex. Using condoms can help reduce the risk of HPV transmission.

Stop smoking. Smoking weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to clear HPV infections.

Close-up of hands resting on a stomach in discomfort

The importance of smear tests

A smear test (also known as cervical screening) is a vital tool for preventing cervical cancer. It detects early changes in cervical cells caused by HPV, allowing treatment before cancer develops.

How does a smear test work?

  • A sample of cells is collected from the cervix using a soft brush
  • The sample is checked for high-risk types of HPV that can cause cell changes
  • If HPV is found, the cells are examined for any abnormalities

Why are smear tests important?

  • Smear tests pick up early cell changes, often before symptoms appear
  • Treating these changes early can prevent cervical cancer from developing

Who should get a smear test?

Smear tests are offered to women aged 25 to 64 in the UK:

  • Ages 25–49: every three years
  • Ages 50–64: every five years

You'll receive an invitation by post when it's time for your screening.

Supporting your cervical health with Doctor Care Anywhere

If you're due for a smear test, experiencing symptoms, or have questions about cervical cancer, we're here to help:

  • Book an online consultation with a GP or Advanced Clinical Practitioner (ACP)
  • Get personalised advice on HPV prevention and cervical screening
  • Discuss any symptoms or concerns you may have with our trusted clinicians
Close-up portrait of a woman with curly hair laughing joyfully

Frequently asked questions

Early cervical cancer often has no symptoms, which is why screening is so important. When symptoms do appear, they can include unusual vaginal bleeding, changes to discharge, or pelvic pain — though these are more commonly caused by something other than cancer.

In the UK, women aged 25–49 are invited every three years, and those aged 50–64 every five years. You'll receive a postal invitation when you're due.

Yes. In most cases, the immune system clears HPV naturally without causing any symptoms or long-term issues. Regular screening exists to catch the small number of cases where it doesn't.

No. The NHS offers the HPV vaccine to all children aged 12–13, regardless of sex, as it protects against HPV-related cancers that can affect anyone.

An abnormal result usually means some cell changes have been found, not that you have cancer. You may be invited for further monitoring or a follow-up test called a colposcopy to look at the cervix more closely.

See a UK GP today

Skip the wait — book an online appointment and get expert advice from a UK-registered clinician in as little as 2 hours. 

Related Topics