Overview

Globally, women continue to face serious health risks due to cervical cancer. Understanding its various stages is crucial for prompt and effective therapy. Stage 3 cervical cancer is a progressed stage, indicating that the cancer has extended past the cervix.

In the field of women's healthcare, cervical cancer frequently remains unnoticed in its initial stages because it typically doesn't present obvious symptoms. It makes education and awareness about the later stages, such as Stage 3, all the more critical. Knowing what to look for can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes. We also aim to provide practical and straightforward information to help patients and their loved ones understand what this diagnosis means and how to navigate its challenges. With advances in medical science, more effective treatments are available, offering hope and improved quality of life to those affected.

Let's discuss Stage 3 cervical cancer, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options!

What Is Stage 3 Cervical Cancer?

Stage 3 cervical cancer extends to regions of the pelvis outside the cervix. It includes spreading to the lower vagina, the walls of the pelvis, or adjacent lymph nodes. However, it has not reached further areas of the body, such as bones or lungs. It is subdivided into Stage 3A, Stage 3B, and 3C. Stage 3A affects the lower part of the vagina without reaching the pelvic wall or lymph nodes. Stage 3B extends into the pelvic wall and may cause kidney problems. Stage 3C is further divided into Stage 3C1, affecting pelvic lymph nodes, and Stage 3C2, affecting abdominal lymph nodes near the aorta.

Causes Of Stage 3 Cervical Cancer

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is responsible for almost 90% of cases of cervical cancer, as per the data from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. Other risk factors include

Smoking.
A weakened immune system.
Long-term use of birth control pills.
Having multiple sexual partners.

Symptoms Of Stage 3 Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer often does not show symptoms until it has spread. Symptoms of Stage 3 cervical cancer can include:

Irregular vaginal bleeding (between periods, after menopause, or after sex).
Longer or heavier menstrual periods.
Smelly or bloody vaginal discharge.
Pelvic pain.
Pain during sex.

As the cancer advances, symptoms may include urinary problems, difficulty or pain during bowel movements, swollen legs, abdominal or back pain, and fatigue.

Treatment Options For Stage 3 Cervical Cancer

Therapy choices for Stage 3 cervical cancer are influenced by various elements, including the cancer's form, where it is located and how large it is, its molecular and genetic traits, how it reacts to treatments, and whether it is an initial diagnosis or a relapse. The typical treatment methods are:

Surgical Intervention: This often entails the removal of the malignant tissue and any lymph nodes impacted.
Radiotherapy: Utilises potent energy beams to eradicate cancer cells.
Chemotherapeutic Treatment: Employs medicinal agents to kill cancer cells, often used with radiotherapy.
Targeted Treatment: Involves medication specifically targeting certain cancer cell characteristics.

Managing Stage 3 Cervical Cancer

Managing Stage 3 cervical cancer extends beyond medical treatment. It involves a holistic approach to care, ensuring the patient's physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. Regular check-ups and imaging tests are crucial for monitoring the cancer's progress and the effectiveness of treatments. Adhering to treatment plans, whether it involves surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, is vital. However, such treatments can have significant side effects, ranging from fatigue and nausea to more severe impacts on fertility and sexual health.

Support from medical experts is essential. Additionally, receiving counselling offers substantial help in dealing with the emotional and psychological challenges associated with a diagnosis of cancer.

Conclusion

Stage 3 cervical cancer is a serious condition that demands prompt and effective treatment. To safeguard against its progression, women must be aware of the causes, symptoms, and availability of treatment options. Regular health check-ups and paying attention to any bodily changes are crucial for early detection and successful management of cervical cancer. Patients can navigate this challenging journey with resilience and hope by embracing a comprehensive approach encompassing medical treatment, side effect management, and emotional support.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stage 3 Cervical Cancer

Q1. How likely are you to survive stage 3 cervical cancer?
A1. The five-year survival rates for stage 3 cervical cancer are approximately 35% for stage 3A and 32% for stage 3B. Immediate medical attention is vital for anyone showing symptoms.

Q2. How do you beat Stage 3 cervical cancer?
A2. Combining chemotherapy with radiation therapy, using drugs such as Cisplatin or Cisplatin plus 5-fluorouracil, is the primary treatment approach for stage 3 cervical cancer.

Q3. Who is most affected by cervical cancer?
A3. Cervical cancer most commonly affects women aged 35-44, with the average age at diagnosis being 50, and is rare in women under 20.

Q4. What is the most common part of cervical cancer?
A4. Most cervical cancers originate in the squamocolumnar junction, the area where the endocervix and ectocervix meet, at the lower end of the uterus connecting to the vagina.

Q5. Can Stage 3 cervical cancer come back?
A5. Recurrence rates for stage III to IVB cervical cancer can reach up to 70%, with higher risks in younger women and those with fewer childbirths.

Reference:

https://www.healthline.com/health/cervical-cancer/stage-3-cervical-cancer-symptoms#takeaway
https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cervical-cancer/stages-types-grades