Last Updated on January 5, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta
Ovarian cancer and cervical cancer affect two different organs of the female reproductive system. Ovarian cancer is initially identified in the ovaries and fallopian tubes, which are situated on either side of the uterus. The ovaries produce both reproductive hormones and the eggs required for reproduction. Cervical cancer originates in the narrow passageway between the uterus and the vagina, also known as the cervix. The ovaries and the cervix have numerous connections, but each type of cancer can have a different set of symptoms and origins. This article focuses on their symptomatic similarities and differences, as well as the available diagnostic and therapeutic options.
What symptoms are similar to and different from those of ovarian and cervical cancers?
The majority of the time, ovarian and cervical cancers don’t present with noticeable symptoms until they have started to spread to nearby tissues. However, there are some symptoms that both of these ailments share. These include irregular vaginal discharge, painful periods, heavier or longer-than-normal periods, bleeding after menopause, bleeding between periods, pain during sexual activity, and bleeding between periods.
In addition, ovarian cancer can also present with a number of symptoms that are uncommon for cervical cancer. These include abdominal bloating and a sudden feeling of fullness after eating.
What identification procedures aid in distinguishing the two conditions?
Ovarian cancer’s developmental origin is still unknown. However, there are a number of things you can do to lower your risk of developing the disease. These preventive measures typically include the use of prescribed birth control pills, genetic testing, and regular checkups. The most frequently used and alarming biomarker for ovarian cancer screening is carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125). Although there is still controversy surrounding its application in clinical practice.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, on the other hand, are primarily responsible for cervical cancer. As a result, cervical cancer screening is comparatively simpler. To help screen for cervical cancer, routine gynecological exams, including Pap smears and HPV tests, are used.
However, in order to diagnose both conditions, tissue biopsies and diagnostic imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans are necessary.
What ovarian and cervical cancer treatments are available?
Both ovarian and cervical cancers can be treated primarily with surgery and chemotherapy. In addition to these, supported pain management, hormone therapy, and immunotherapy can be the treatment options in the cases of ovarian cancer. Whereas treatment options for cervical cancer can be radiation therapy, either internal or external. The outlook for ovarian cancer is less favorable than for cervical cancer. This is due to the fact that screening tests can aid in the early detection and treatment of cervical cancer, but the detection of ovarian cancer happens typically at an advanced stage. Cervical cancer is currently one of the most preventable cancers as well. Most cervical cancers can be avoided with the HPV vaccine.
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