Lesser-known hip symptom that could indicate cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers in women worldwide

An expert has pinpointed four major "red flag" symptoms that may suggest cervical cancer, with a warning to remain vigilant as the earlier the disease is caught, the higher the chances of survival.

There are roughly 3,300 new cervical cancer diagnoses across the UK annually, resulting in about 850 deaths each year, according to figures from Cancer Research UK. Statistic also show that an overwhelming 99.8% of these cases could be prevented, and early detection can dramatically improve patient outcomes.

It's crucial, therefore, to recognise key signs and consult a GP if necessary. Cervical cancer begins in the cervix, which connects the lower part of the uterus to the vagina. Having regular smear tests is an effective way to combat the illness before it advances.

For those potentially affected by cervical cancer, attending scheduled smear appointments is strongly encouraged. Being mindful of cervical cancer symptoms and quickly seeking medical opinions is equally important, as is getting the HPV vaccine when it's offered to 11-18 years-olds.

The importance of discussing preventative techniques with loved ones cannot be overstated – raising awareness is essential. Information and support regarding cervical cancer prevention are widely available from GPs and local sexual health services.

Alexandra Penk, Litigation Executive at Patient Claim Line, previously shared four red flags to watch out for with the Liverpool ECHO, as well as advising on steps to take if you've experienced delayed treatment. She pointed out one hip symptom - pelvic pain - as well as three others: "Pain or discomfort during sex, vaginal discharge and ... another common symptom we hear about is unusual vaginal bleeding such as bleeding between periods, during or after sex and at any time after your menopause.

"Ultimately, not everyone diagnosed with cervical cancer will display symptoms, so it's crucial to attend regular cervical screening assessments."

Ms Penk also shed light on the NHS cervical cancer screening programme, noting: "The NHS cervical screening programme is open to women aged between 25 and 64. It is also available for anyone in this age range who have a cervix, including trans men and non-binary people.

"In England and Northern Ireland, you should expect to receive an invite every three years, if you are aged between 25 and 49. If you are aged between 50 and 64, expect to receive an invite every five years. If you live in Scotland or Wales, you will be invited for screening every five years, between the ages of 25 and 64."

She further explained that cervical screening, often referred to as a smear test, involves collecting a sample of cells from the cervix using a small, soft brush which is then analysed in a lab for HPV testing.

"If you test positive for HPV, you will be invited for a colposcopy to examine your cervix more closely. If there are no cell changes, you will be invited for a cervical screening sooner than usual - around a year."

Cervical cancer symptoms as listed by the NHS

• vaginal bleeding that's unusual for you – including bleeding during or after sex, between your periods or after the menopause, or having heavier periods than usual
• changes to your vaginal discharge
• pain during sex
• pain in your lower back, between your hip bones (pelvis), or in your lower tummy

How is cervical cancer treated?

“Cervical cancer treatment will depend on where in the cervix the cancer is located as well as its size. Other important considerations include whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body as well as your general health. If you have a diagnosis of cervical cancer, you will usually have surgery or a form of chemotherapy and radiotherapy (known as chemoradiotherapy).”

What can I do if I’ve received delayed treatment for cervical cancer?

“If there’s been a delay in treating your cervical cancer, this is considered to be medical negligence. You are therefore entitled to make a claim for compensation.”