Does cervical cancer cause anemia in the early stages?

Written by Yan Chun
Oncology
Updated on June 07, 2025
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Cervical cancer is one of the common malignant tumors in gynecology, and a small number of patients with cervical cancer may experience anemia in the early stages. This is because the main clinical symptoms of early-stage cervical cancer patients are mainly vaginal bleeding or vaginal discharge. As the amount of vaginal bleeding in patients with cervical cancer is not significantly related to the stage of the cancer, some patients in the early stages of cervical cancer may have a large amount of vaginal bleeding, which can lead to mild anemia. In some cases, patients may experience severe bleeding, which can lead to anemia-induced shock. For patients with cervical cancer, in addition to vaginal bleeding, some patients may also experience an increase in vaginal secretions and vaginal discharge. Young women may also experience an extension of the menstrual cycle and an increase in menstrual volume, all of which can cause anemia in patients clinically.

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Is cervical hypertrophy cervical cancer?

In clinical practice, most cases of cervical hypertrophy are not cervical cancer, but normal women do not have cervical hypertrophy. It is recommended that patients who suspect cervical hypertrophy should immediately visit the obstetrics and gynecology clinic of their local hospital, undergo a gynecological color ultrasound, and a gynecological examination to determine the cause of the cervical hypertrophy. The gynecological examination mainly relies on the doctor's visual assessment of the size of the cervix, and observation of any obvious lesions on the surface of the cervix. Additionally, gynecological ultrasound can be used to identify potential lesions in parts of the cervix that are not visible to the naked eye.

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Late-stage symptoms of cervical cancer

The symptoms of advanced cervical cancer start with vaginal bleeding. In the later stages, the bleeding becomes irregular and possibly heavy. The second symptom is vaginal discharge. In advanced stages, due to cancerous tissue necrosis accompanied by infection, there can be a large amount of foul-smelling, watery, or purulent discharge. The third point about advanced symptoms depends on the extent of the cancerous area involved. Secondary symptoms may appear depending on the adjacent tissues, organs, and nerves affected, including frequent urination, urgency, constipation, swelling and pain in the lower limbs. When the tumor compresses or involves the ureter, it can cause ureteral obstruction, hydronephrosis, and uremia. In the advanced stages, patients may experience symptoms of systemic failure like anemia and cachexia.

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How is cervical cancer treated?

The principle of treating cervical cancer is mainly through surgery and radiotherapy, supplemented by chemotherapy in a comprehensive treatment plan. Treatment should be based on clinical staging, age, overall condition, and a combination of technical level and equipment conditions to formulate an appropriate treatment plan. It emphasizes the individualization of treatment and the importance of initial treatment. Not everyone will have the same treatment plan; it should vary from person to person, with specific issues analyzed individually. Surgical options include extensive hysterectomy and extensive cervical resection. If cervical cancer is staged late, it should also be treated with radiotherapy, supplemented by chemotherapy. Nowadays, there are also targeted medications and immunotherapies to consider as part of the treatment options.

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Cervical cancer symptoms

Cervical cancer generally has no symptoms in its early stages. In advanced stages, symptoms become more obvious. In the early stages, signs may include increased vaginal discharge, bleeding after sexual intercourse, or discharge containing blood streaks, typically without abdominal pain. In advanced stages, there might be irregular vaginal bleeding or heavy bleeding, and sometimes the secretions may appear like rice-wash water. If an infection occurs, there can be a foul smell, and pain in the lower abdomen may be felt, indicating the cancer has progressed to a late stage. Therefore, if there is an increase in discharge or bleeding after intercourse during the early stages, it is crucial to promptly visit a hospital for examination.

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How to prevent cervical cancer

How to prevent cervical cancer: Firstly, it is very important to prevent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). So, how can one prevent HPV infection? First, in choosing sexual partners, one should select a healthy male, generally a steady one, and avoid relationships with men who have penile cancer, prostate cancer, or whose ex-wife had cervical cancer, as these men are considered high-risk, and the women they come into contact with are also at increased risk of developing cervical cancer. Secondly, we should pay attention to personal hygiene. Thirdly, one should enhance their physical constitution to prevent viral infections and to maintain cleanliness. Fourthly, attention should be given to prevention of other contributing factors, such as early childbirth. Therefore, it is necessary to choose an appropriate age for childbirth. Multiple births are also related to cervical cancer, so if pregnant, one should avoid miscarriage and multiple dilation and curettage procedures. Fifthly, adhere to a healthy and reasonable diet, and avoid smoking and drinking alcohol.