Cervical Cancer Treatment: Symptoms, Classification, Diagnosis & Recovery

Before the treatment, the doctor you are consulting is likely to order a few tests to confirm the diagnosis and devise a treatment plan.

Regular cervical cancer screening can decrease the mortality rate substantially and early cervical cancer diagnosis helps better the success rate of cervical cancer treatment. Some of the common diagnostic tests used in cervical cancer diagnosis include the following:

1. PAP smear test
2. Human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA test
3. Blood test
4. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
5. Computed tomography (CT scan)
6. Pelvic ultrasound
7. Biopsy
8. Colposcopy

Once the diagnosis is confirmed, the doctor prepares a treatment plan and will eventually share it with you. He or she will conduct a thorough physical examination before surgical treatment. You will also be required to undergo a pelvic exam before treatment. During the pelvic exam, the doctor inserts two lubricated and gloved fingers inside the vagina to check for lumps and growths in the uterus. It helps to identify the size, shape, and exact location of the cancerous growths.

The treatment for cervical cancer may vary depending on the stage of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and other factors. Common treatment modalities include:

• Surgery: Cervical cancer surgery can be used to remove cancer cells from their place of origin and the surrounding tissues. The common types of surgery used for cervical cancer treatment include:

1. Conization (Cone Biopsy): Removal of a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix to diagnose or treat early-stage cancer. Hysterectomy: Surgical removal of the uterus and, in some cases, surrounding tissues such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
2. Lymphadenectomy: Removal of lymph nodes in the pelvic area to check for cancer spread. Cryosurgery: In this method, an extremely cold metal probe is placed directly on the cervix, which kills the abnormal cells by freezing them.
3. Laser surgery: In this surgery, a focused laser beam is directed through the vagina which vaporizes abnormal cells.

• Radiation Therapy: it includes

1. External Beam Radiation: Directing radiation from outside the body to the cancer site.
2. Brachytherapy (Internal Radiation): Placing a radioactive source near or inside the tumor.

• Chemotherapy: This treatment makes use of anti-cancer medicines to kill cancer cells. The cytotoxic medicines used in chemotherapy enter the bloodstream and reach all areas of the body. This makes chemotherapy treatment useful for preventing cancer cells from dividing and growing in most parts of the body. Chemotherapy is often given in cycles, with each treatment period followed by a recovery time.It may be given orally or intravenously.
• Targeted Therapy: Medications targeting specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth. This may be used in combination with chemotherapy.
• Immunotherapy: Boosting the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.

The recovery process and duration of hospital stays following cervical cancer surgery can vary depending on the type of surgery performed and individual factors. Here's a general overview:

1. Conization (Cone Biopsy) Typically, women can resume normal activities within a few days to a week. Hospital Stay: Conization is often performed on an outpatient basis, requiring no overnight hospital stay.
2. Hysterectomy: Recovery time can range from a few weeks to several weeks, depending on the extent of surgery. Hospital Stay: For minimally invasive procedures (laparoscopic or robotic), hospital stays are usually shorter, often ranging from one to three days. For an open abdominal hysterectomy, the stay may be longer, typically around three to five days.
3. Lymphadenectomy: Recovery time is influenced by the extent of lymph node removal. Hospital Stay: Typically, one to three days, depending on the surgical approach and overall recovery progress.

It's very crucial to note that individual recovery experiences may vary, and some women may need more time for healing. After discharge, patients will be advised to follow up with their healthcare team for postoperative care, including monitoring for any signs of complications or infection. Throughout the recovery process, patients are often encouraged to:

• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities.
• Take prescribed medications as directed, including pain management.
• Attend follow-up appointments for postoperative checks and discussions about further treatment, if needed.
• Follow any specific instructions provided by the healthcare team, such as dietary guidelines and pelvic rest recommendations.

Moreover, emotional and psychological support is crucial during the recovery period, and healthcare providers may recommend counseling or support groups to address any concerns or emotional aspects of the journey.