Cervical Cancer Therapy

The majority of cervical cancers are caused by HPV, the human papilloma virus, of which there are more than 40 types. Cervical cancer impacts the lower part of the uterus where the uterus and vagina intersect. Often there may be no symptoms, though at advanced stages there may be vaginal bleeding or lower abdominal pain. A pap smear can identify the abnormal cells associated with cervical cancer.

Over 11,000 new cases of cervical cancer are reported every year. It has been estimated that in 2009 there were 11,270 new cases and 4,070 deaths resulting from cervical cancer in the United States.

Surgery

• There are several surgical options for treating cervical cancer. Cryosurgery is used to treat early non-invasive cancer--a metal probe coated with liquid nitrogen is used to burn off cancerous lesions. Laser surgery, where a laser beam is used to burn off cancerous cells, is also used for non-invasive cancer.

  During conization, another treatment for early stage cancer, a cone-shaped piece of tissue is removed from the cervix. This is particularly useful to remove tissue for a biopsy or for women who would like to have children. Simple hysterectomies, where the cervix and uterus are removed, are also options for early stage cancer.

Chemotherapy

• Chemotherapy involves anticancer drugs being taking orally or injected through the veins. The drugs reach all portions of the body through the bloodstream, thereby being able to impact any cancerous cells. Medications usually used for cervical cancer include cisplatin, paclitaxel, topotecan, ifosfamide and fluorouracil.

Radiation Therapy

• When radiation is used to treat cervical cancer, high-energy x-rays are applied either externally (like an x-ray) or internally (where the radioactive material is located inside a cylinder and is inserted into the vagina).

  External radiation is called external beam radiation therapy, while internal radiation is called brachytherapy.

  External radiation takes about six to seven weeks to complete, and is usually used in combination with chemotherapy and drugs. Internal radiation lasts a few days, with the patient staying in the hospital for the duration of the treatment. Internal radiation may involve several treatment periods.

Complimentary Treatments

• There are several options to help ease any symptoms that may result from the cancer itself or from the side-effects of surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Meditation has been shown to help reduce stress related to the illness and treatment, acupuncture has been shown to help relieve pain and peppermint tea or ginger can help relieve nausea.