Revealed: Nurse shares the unexpected symptom that could be a sign of cervical cancer
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We do our best to stay healthy, but sometimes, unexpected conditions and illnesses can catch us completely off-guard. That's why being aware of how our bodies work – and any potential warning signs – is invaluable.
Today, we’d like to bring attention to a lesser-known symptom of cervical cancer.
Jane Clarke, a nurse with over two decades of experience, recently shared advise for all women: pay attention to 'frequent and sudden urges to urinate that may be difficult to control.' So – what’s the connection with cervical cancer, exactly?
Well, according to Nurse Jane, this may be a symptom of the disease. 'For example, you need to pass urine many times during the day and night and may also experience unintentional loss of urine,' she said.
As the name suggests, Cervical cancer develops on a woman's cervix and is usually caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV). This virus is very common and, in most cases, goes away without any trouble.
However, when it doesn’t, HPV can cause changes in the cells, resulting in cervical cancer over time. This takes around five to 20 years, on average.
Cervical cancer in itself may not show any symptoms, or the symptoms may be hard to spot. That said, there’s an effective prevention procedure we can all do – getting a cervical screening test, which looks for HPV infection.
Women aged 25 to 74 years of age, who have received the HPV vaccine, should be tested every five years. This is not the same as a Pap Smear.
Undergoing medical treatment can cause bladder changes. For example, radiotherapy can sometimes cause pain or burning when passing urine and cause an increase in urination. In addition, if you notice any slight pink tinge to the colour of your urine, consult with a doctor as soon as possible.
Fortunately, there are a few steps we can take should we experience any bladder issues. Nurse Jane recommends regularly eating a high-fibre diet, staying healthy and hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and doing pelvic floor exercises.
'Your specialist should provide instructions on how to perform these exercises, or you may access a specialist healthcare provider, such as women's health physio or continence nurse specialist,' she said.
'To help manage embarrassing leaks on your recovery journey, there are multiple washable and disposable continence aids which are highly absorbent and discreet.’
'Do remember, though, if you start to experience difficulty passing urine or suspect you have a urinary infection, seek medical assistance promptly.' she continued.
As the saying goes, it’s better to be safe than sorry, so if you haven’t had a test within the last five years, it’s time to book in. You might also like to read this story. Did you know about this symptom? Share your thoughts below.
Today, we’d like to bring attention to a lesser-known symptom of cervical cancer.
Jane Clarke, a nurse with over two decades of experience, recently shared advise for all women: pay attention to 'frequent and sudden urges to urinate that may be difficult to control.' So – what’s the connection with cervical cancer, exactly?
Well, according to Nurse Jane, this may be a symptom of the disease. 'For example, you need to pass urine many times during the day and night and may also experience unintentional loss of urine,' she said.
Regular check-ups with the doctor might come in handy to see early symptoms. Image: Freepik.
As the name suggests, Cervical cancer develops on a woman's cervix and is usually caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV). This virus is very common and, in most cases, goes away without any trouble.
However, when it doesn’t, HPV can cause changes in the cells, resulting in cervical cancer over time. This takes around five to 20 years, on average.
Cervical cancer in itself may not show any symptoms, or the symptoms may be hard to spot. That said, there’s an effective prevention procedure we can all do – getting a cervical screening test, which looks for HPV infection.
Women aged 25 to 74 years of age, who have received the HPV vaccine, should be tested every five years. This is not the same as a Pap Smear.
Undergoing medical treatment can cause bladder changes. For example, radiotherapy can sometimes cause pain or burning when passing urine and cause an increase in urination. In addition, if you notice any slight pink tinge to the colour of your urine, consult with a doctor as soon as possible.
Fortunately, there are a few steps we can take should we experience any bladder issues. Nurse Jane recommends regularly eating a high-fibre diet, staying healthy and hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and doing pelvic floor exercises.
'Your specialist should provide instructions on how to perform these exercises, or you may access a specialist healthcare provider, such as women's health physio or continence nurse specialist,' she said.
'To help manage embarrassing leaks on your recovery journey, there are multiple washable and disposable continence aids which are highly absorbent and discreet.’
'Do remember, though, if you start to experience difficulty passing urine or suspect you have a urinary infection, seek medical assistance promptly.' she continued.
As the saying goes, it’s better to be safe than sorry, so if you haven’t had a test within the last five years, it’s time to book in. You might also like to read this story. Did you know about this symptom? Share your thoughts below.
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