Nam Bo-ra's cervical cancer: the early signs most women miss

If you've been postponing your check-up, we hope this article encourages you to take a closer look at your health. Cervical cancer often presents with few distinct symptoms in its early stages, making regular screenings and HPV testing the most practical methods for early detection.

Why is Cervical Cancer Difficult to Detect Early?

In the clinic, many patients who come in concerned about cervical cancer report having no particular discomfort beforehand. This highlights that cervical cancer often shows few special symptoms in its early stages. Consequently, there are reported cases where detection occurs relatively late due to postponed screenings.

However, if you experience any of the following recurring changes, it may be advisable to consider a gynecological consultation:

• Bleeding after sexual intercourse
• Bleeding outside of menstrual periods
• Vaginal discharge with an unusual odor
• Persistent pelvic pain
• Significant changes in menstrual flow

Having these symptoms does not necessarily mean cancer. However, they could be signals of changes in cervical cells, so identifying the cause can help provide peace of mind.

What are the Main Causes of Cervical Cancer?

The factor most closely linked to cervical cancer is reported to be HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection. HPV is a very common virus, and women who have had sexual experience are known to have a high chance of encountering it at least once in their lifetime.

Most HPV infections often clear up naturally over time. However, if high-risk HPV persists for a long time, it can progress through cervical dysplasia, a precancerous stage, to cervical cancer. This is why it's meaningful to consider both HPV testing and cervical cytology together.

Cervical cancer typically doesn't develop in an instant; rather, cells undergo a slow process of change. The greatest significance of regular check-ups is the ability to detect these stages of change in advance.

Do Women in Their 20s Also Need Cervical Cancer Screening?

Many people believe cervical cancer screening is only for women over 40. However, HPV infection is not uncommon in women in their 20s. Especially in the following cases, screening can be considered regardless of age:

• If you have sexual experience
• If vaginitis frequently recurs
• If you experience bleeding outside of menstruation
• If you have a history of HPV infection
• If you haven't had a cervical screening for over a year

It is known that changes in the cervix, when detected at a precancerous stage, can often be managed with relatively simple methods. If you have frequently received vaginitis and STI care, it can be helpful to also include a check-up.

If your symptoms are ambiguous and you're hesitant about getting tested, you're welcome to start by comfortably discussing your situation.

How is Cervical Cancer Screening Performed?

Cervical examinations are generally less burdensome than you might expect. The following methods are commonly used:

The examination usually takes around 5 minutes, and severe pain is often not experienced. Performing both cervical cytology and HPV testing together allows for a comprehensive look at both cellular changes and viral infection status, often utilized for regular check-ups.

How Can You Prepare for Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is known as a women's cancer for which preparation is relatively possible. Commonly recommended approaches include:

• Proactive preparation through HPV vaccination
• Regular cervical cytology (Pap test)
• Concurrent HPV testing when necessary
• Regular monitoring of overall women's health

Vaccination recommendations may vary depending on age and vaccination history, so it's best to confirm a schedule suitable for you through consultation. If HPV has already been detected or vaginitis recurs, it can be helpful to consider management from the perspective of HPV and chronic vaginitis.

Consider a Check-up in These Cases

If any of the following apply to you, we recommend not delaying and getting a check-up:

• When there is bleeding after sexual intercourse or outside of menstruation
• When vaginitis frequently recurs
• When there is a history of HPV infection
• When you haven't had a cervical screening for over a year

Cervical cancer is known as a disease where early detection is particularly crucial. Even without distinct symptoms, regular check-ups to confirm your current status can help provide peace of mind. For those who have postponed check-ups, a small step can make a big difference.

If you have questions about test types, costs, or preparation, please feel free to inquire.

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Dr. Lee Eun-jin, Chief Director (Specialized in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Samsung Medical Center, Regular Member of the Korean Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Regular Member of the Korean Society of Menopause) Dr. Lee Eun-jin's Profile First Published 2026-03-05 / Last Reviewed 2026-06-17

This article provides general medical information, and symptoms and progression may vary individually. For an accurate diagnosis and examination plan, please consult with an OB/GYN specialist.