What Are the Risks of Cervical Cancer Treatments?

The cervix connects the uterus and the vagina. Cervical cancer forms in the tissues of the cervix. There are usually no symptoms for cervical cancer, but it can be diagnosed early with regular pap smears.

Treatment Options

• Knowing the stage of the cancer will help determine the best treatment option for cervical cancer. The stage of the cancer depends on the size and depth, and how far it has already spread.

Surgery Risks

• There are several surgeries that can be performed to remove cervical cancer. Risks from these surgeries can include infection of the wound, bleeding, or damage to other organs.

Radiation Risks

• Radiation therapy is used to kill the cancer cells. Risks from radiation are skin changes, urination problems, low blood counts, scar tissue, vaginal dryness, damage to the ovaries, and weakened bones.

Chemotherapy Risks

• Chemotherapy is a mixture of anti-cancer drugs that are given by injection or by mouth. Chemotherapy can cause low blood counts, increased risk of infection, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, and premature menopause,

Considerations

• Depending on the severity of the cancer, doctors may use a combination of these treatments for cervical cancer. Combining these treatments can result in a better chance for the patient to reduce these risks.