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Cervical cancer and hormonal imbalances may seem daunting, but awareness and early action can change the narrative
By staying informed and proactive, women can take control of their health and significantly reduce the risks associated with cancer and hormonal imbalances
In recent years, the incidence of cervical cancer and hormonal imbalance-related health issues has been steadily rising, posing significant challenges to women’s health worldwide. Cervical cancer, one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in women, is often linked to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection, yet it remains preventable with early intervention and vaccination.
Simultaneously, hormonal imbalances, triggered by lifestyle factors such as stress, poor diet, and environmental toxins, have become increasingly common, leading to a range of symptoms that can disrupt daily life. The growing prevalence of these conditions underscores the importance of awareness and timely medical care to safeguard overall well-being. Dr. Divya Sehra, Consultant – Gynaecologic Oncology, Manipal Hospital Dwarka, New Delhi shares all you need to know about cervical cancer and hormonal imbalance
What are the indicators of Cervical Cancer?
- Irregular Bleeding: Various factors such as stress, weight loss, etc may alter the menstrual cycle. If you are constantly spotting between normal period cycles, or are experiencing unusual heavy bleeding, it is ideal to consult a gynecologist.
- Continuous Vaginal Discharge: Unusual vaginal discharge could indicate severe gynecologic cancers. A watery or bloody discharge, which might be heavy and have a foul odor can point towards cervical cancer.
- Pain and bleeding after Intercourse: If there are feelings of discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse, it can be a symptom of cervical cancer. Inflammation or irritation can be witnessed in the cervix, causing the intercourse to be uncomfortable.
- Lower back or Pelvic Pain: A dull or aching pain may envelop around the pelvic or the lower back region. This is due to the growth of cancer cells, causing pressure on the body’s other organs.We often notice fluctuations in hormones that may occur during events like – pregnancy, puberty, breastfeeding, and menopause in the body. However, not all hormonal imbalances point towards a long-term issue. All of these hormonal ups and downs are commonly observed during aging and reproductive processes. In the lifetime of a woman, many times, hormonal imbalances are left untreated. Although, sometimes they may lead to severe issues in the body.
Understanding Hormonal Imbalances in the Body:Hormonal imbalances are influenced by a variety of reasons such as poor diet, stress, medical conditions, or various reproductive and natural stages in life. There are a number of conditions that can occur due to hormonal imbalances in the body. Some of these are – PCOS, Hyperthyroidism, Diabetes, Mood and Growth Disorders, etc.
A few symptoms of hormonal imbalances in the body are:
- AgeAs women go through the various reproductive stages throughout their lives, there is a lot of wear and tear in the internal organs such as the ovaries and the uterus. Apart from this, numerous physiological changes also occur, which contribute to the dysregulation of hormones, due to events like childbearing, perimenopause, etc.
- Changes in Weight and AppetiteOne may witness, sudden weight gain or loss. They may crave certain foods or have no appetite at all.
- Decreased Bone DensityThere may be pain in the muscles or the joints as the hormonal imbalances affect the bone density increasing the risk of conditions such as osteoporosis or fractures.
- Skin and Hair ChangesIt is common for the skin to change its texture, and color or become acne prone. Even the hair can become thin, causing extreme hair loss or excessive hair growth.
Cervical cancer and hormonal imbalances may seem daunting, but awareness and early action can change the narrative. Women should prioritize their health by paying attention to unusual symptoms and seeking medical advice without delay. Regular screenings and vaccinations, such as the HPV vaccine, play a critical role in preventing cervical cancer.
Similarly, addressing hormonal imbalances early can restore overall health and improve quality of life. By staying informed and proactive, women can take control of their health and significantly reduce the risks associated with these conditions.