Symptoms of cervical cancer

Common symptoms of cervical cancer can include:

• heavier periods than you normally have
• vaginal bleeding between periods
• vaginal bleeding after sex
• vaginal bleeding after the menopause (after you have stopped having periods).

Other symptoms include:

• a smelly vaginal discharge
• urine infections that keep coming back
• pain in the lower tummy or back.

Very early-stage cervical cancer may not cause any symptoms. It is usually found and treated because of cervical screening tests (this includes a smear test).

If you get symptoms between your regular cervical screening appointments, do not wait for your next appointment. Talk to your GP or practice nurse and get the symptoms checked. These symptoms can be embarrassing, but your GP or practice nurse will understand.

We understand that showing any symptoms of what could be cancer is worrying. The most important thing is to speak to your GP as soon as possible. We're also here if you need someone to talk to. You can: