Find Relief from an Enlarged Uterus: Expert Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Expert diagnosis and effective treatments for an enlarged uterus. Early care can relieve symptoms, support fertility, and improve quality of life.
Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, claiming more than 2,000 lives each year. The leading cause is infection with high-risk strains of HPV, which can be prevented through screening and HPV vaccines. These measures are key to effectively preventing infection and reducing the risk of cervical cancer.
Dr. Chalida Raorungrot, anChalida Raorungrot obstetrician-gynecologist specializing in gynecologic oncology at Vejthani Hospital, explained that cervical cancer develops in the cervix—the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is one of the most common cancers affecting women, particularly those of reproductive age. More than 99% of cervical cancer cases are caused by infection with high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is primarily transmitted through sexual contact. All sexually active women are at risk of contracting high-risk HPV and, subsequently, developing cervical cancer.
Early-stage cervical cancer often does not show symptoms. Still, some changes can be noticed, such as abnormal vaginal bleeding, unusual discharge with a bad smell or blood, and lower abdominal pain. As the disease progresses, swelling in the legs, blood in urine or stool, and kidney failure may occur.
HPV is divided into two types:
- High-risk HPV strains are types that can cause cancer, especially cervical cancer. Around 70% of these cancers are caused by HPV strains 16 and 18. Other high-risk strains include HPV 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 66, and 68.
- Low-risk HPV strains do not cause cancer but can lead to sexually transmitted infections, such as genital warts. About 90% of genital wart cases are caused by HPV strains 6 and 11.
Preventing HPV infection is also a way to prevent cervical cancer and sexually transmitted diseases. The following are guidelines for preventing cervical cancer:
- Receive 2-3 doses of HPV vaccine, depending on the age. For those under 15 years, 2 doses are recommended; if over 15, 3 doses are recommended. The second dose should be given 1-2 months after the first dose, and the third dose should be given 6 months after the first. When three doses are given, the vaccine is most effective if administered to girls or women who have never had sexual intercourse, as they have not been exposed to HPV. However, those who have been sexually active can still receive the vaccine to protect against HPV strains they have never received before. The vaccine is available for both females and males, starting from age 9, and can reduce the risk of cervical cancer by up to 90% if the complete vaccine series is received before any exposure to the virus.
- Preventing sexually transmitted infections, such as using condoms and having a single sexual partner.
- Regular cervical cancer screening every 1-3 years or as recommended by your doctor.
The best way to prevent cervical cancer is through HPV vaccination, regular screenings, and staying aware of any unusual changes in your body. Consistent self-care is the key to protection.
For more information, please contact
Women’s Health Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 Ext. 3200, 3204
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888
Medically Reviewed by
DR. Chalida Raorungrot
Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Obstetrics Gynecology - Gynecologic Oncology
Readers’ Rating
4.3 out of 5 stars (based on 4 reviews)
