10 Foods Your Vagina Needs You to Eat

What you eat affects your body from head to toe, and that includes your lady bits. These foods will boost your health down there and everywhere.

Kimchi

Fermented foods, like kimchi (a Korean dish made of fermented veggies), are bursting with healthy bacteria. Eating more of these, along with fermented fare such as sauerkraut, pickles, and miso, can help maintain a healthy population of gut flora in your body—which includes your vagina, says Katherine Thurer, MD, an integrative gynecologist at the Raby Institute for Integrative Medicine at Northwestern in Chicago.

Tea

While the warm cup won’t directly act on vaginal health, it’s a smart swap to make rather than sipping wine with a meal or dessert after. “I get an uptake of complaints of yeast infections around the holidays when people are indulging in alcohol and sweets,” says Dr. Thurer.

These foods, which are high in natural sugars, feed yeast in the body. Of course, too much wine and sugar can be consumed any time of the year. If this is chronic a problem for you, think about ways you can cut down both, and check out these other proven techniques for preventing yeast infections.

Salmon

Fatty fish supply plentiful amounts of omega 3 fatty acids. “Essential fatty acids are found in the membranes of every cell in our body,” says Staci Small, RD, owner of The Wellness Philosophy in Indianapolis. “They’ve been shown to help improve vaginal dryness in menopausal women,” she says. Bone up on fatty fish like salmon two times a week—or try to include these other omega 3-rich foods that aren’t fish, if you’re not a fan. On other days, Small recommends taking a high-quality fish oil supplement.

Yogurt

Rich in probiotics, yogurt can also help populate your gut (and vagina) with healthy microbes, says Dr. Thurer. However, because sugar feeds bad bacteria in your system, which can throw off the intricate balance in your body, choose plain yogurt and add fruit yourself, she advises.

Avocado

Healthy monounsaturated fats like avocado, nuts, and olive oil play a key role in helping your body make sex hormones. If those hormones are askew (for example, if estrogen levels are too low), you may notice that your vagina feels drier than usual, which can make sex painful. Don’t fear dietary fat—your vagina depends on it!

Strawberries

Surprise! Strawberries offer more vitamin C than an orange. “I find women aren’t often getting enough vitamin C,” says Small. The vitamin is needed for your adrenal glands, which produce both sex hormones and the stress hormone cortisol. In addition, Small points out, C plays a pivotal role in collagen synthesis, which is essential for muscles and tissue elasticity. Of course you need that all over your body, including in your vagina.

Eggs

One egg delivers a good dose of vitamin D. And being deficient in D sets you up to be more at risk for a vaginal infection called bacterial vaginosis (BV), perhaps because of the vitamin’s role in the immune system of the vagina. In a 2015 study, popping D supplements for 15 weeks helped treat BV. The researchers conclude that it may even help prevent the infections in people who are already low in vitamin D. Talk to your doc about taking a supplement, but it’s also smart to eat more foods that are D-plentiful, like whole eggs.

Kale

Cook it and then pile a bunch on your plate. A couple cups will deliver a generous dose of both calcium and magnesium. “These two minerals are needed for proper muscle tone and function, including the vagina. However, many women find it difficult to get the amount they need,” she says. Other sources of calcium include dairy, of course, while you can find magnesium in beans and nuts.

Water

If you’re hooked on diet soda or juice, count this as another reason to switch it out for plain water. “Artificial sugar disrupts your gut flora,” says Dr. Thurer. And remember, when your gut flora isn’t healthy, your vagina isn’t either. If plain H2O is too boring for you, look for unsweetened carbonated waters like LaCroix.

Whole grains

Barley, whole wheat, farro, popcorn. They’re all whole grains, which are rich in prebiotics. “Their healthy fiber feeds good bacteria in our bodies so it can flourish,” says Small. In addition to whole grains, foods like fruits and veggies, including bananas and artichokes, for example, are other sources of prebiotics.

Top 11 Foods That Can Boost Your Immune System

Keeping your immune system healthy is very important, no matter the season. Naturally, what you eat can majorly influence your immune health. Certain foods may actually decrease your chances of getting sick, while others can help you recover more quickly if you do get ill.

1. Iron-Rich Foods

Iron is a mineral that plays an important role in immune function. A diet containing too little iron can contribute to anemia and weaken the immune system. That’s why it’s important to optimize your intake of iron-rich foods, such as meat, poultry, fish, shellfish, legumes, nuts, seeds, cruciferous vegetables and dried fruit.

You can also improve your absorption of iron from foods by using cast-iron pots and pans to cook, and avoiding tea or coffee with meals. Combining iron-rich foods with a source of vitamin C can help boost your absorption even further.

That said, it’s important to remember that overly high blood iron levels can be harmful and may actually suppress the immune system. Therefore, it’s best to use iron supplements only if you have an iron deficiency, or on the advice of a doctor.

Optimal blood iron levels help improve your immune function. Therefore, it’s advantageous to include iron-rich foods in your diet. See more foods that are high in iron.

2. Probiotic-Rich Foods

Foods that are rich in probiotics are thought to help enhance your immune function. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in your gut and help stimulate your immune system. They also help maintain the health of your gut’s lining, which may help prevent unwanted substances from “leaking” into the body and provoking an immune response. In fact, recent reviews show that probiotics may reduce the risk of developing upper respiratory tract infections by up to 42%.

Studies also show that when people do get sick, those who regularly consume probiotics are up to 33% less likely to need antibiotics. In certain cases, regularly consuming probiotics may also lead to a faster recovery from illness. Most studies on the topic provided participants with probiotic supplements. However, it’s also possible to increase your intake by making probiotic foods a regular part of your diet.

Great sources of probiotics include sauerkraut, naturally fermented pickles, yogurt, kefir, buttermilk, kimchi, tempeh, miso, natto and kombucha. For more about probiotic foods you can read here.

Probiotics can help strengthen your immune system. This may reduce the likelihood and severity of your symptoms and help you recover faster when you do fall ill.

3. Citrus Fruit

Fruits like oranges, grapefruits and tangerines are high in vitamin C, a well-known immunity booster. Vitamin C is recognized for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps maintain the integrity of your skin, which acts as a protective barrier against infection. In addition, vitamin C can act as an antioxidant, helping protect your immune cells against harmful compounds formed in response to viral or bacterial infections .

Therefore, getting enough vitamin C is a great way to strengthen your immune system and may reduce your likelihood of infection. Some studies also report that upping your vitamin C intake during the common cold may help you get better more quickly. That said, it might be more advantageous to increase your intake from plant foods rather than supplements, since plants contain other beneficial compounds that supplements may not.

Other foods high in vitamin C include bell peppers, guavas, dark leafy greens, broccoli, berries, tomatoes, papaya and snap peas. For more vitamin C source you can read here.

Citrus fruit and other vitamin-C-rich foods can help boost your immune system. This likely lowers your risk of infection and may even speed up your recovery.

4. Ginger

Ginger is rich in gingerol, a bioactive substance thought to help lower the risk of infections. In fact, ginger has antimicrobial properties that may inhibit the growth of several types of bacteria, including E. coli, Candida and Salmonella.

Studies on human cells show that fresh ginger may also help fight the human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV), a virus responsible for many respiratory infections. However, more studies in humans are needed to support this protective effect. Ginger’s effects may be especially potent if the ginger compounds are already present in your body before the infection occurs.

Finally, ginger also has anti-nausea effects, which may help decrease your nausea symptoms when you have the flu. In the meantime, simply add a sprinkle of fresh or dried ginger to your dishes or smoothies. You can also sip on a fresh ginger infusion or use pickled ginger as a probiotic-rich palate cleanser between dishes.

Making ginger a regular part of your diet may help decrease your risk of infection and reduce nausea symptoms when you’re sick. Read also health benefits of ginger.

5. Garlic

Garlic also contains active compounds that may help reduce your risk of infection. For instance, allicin, the main active compound in garlic, is thought to improve your immune cells’ ability to fight off colds and the flu. Garlic also seems to have antimicrobial and antiviral properties that may help it fight bacterial and viral infections.

In one study, participants given a daily allicin supplement experienced colds 63% less often than the placebo group. In addition, when they did get sick, participants in the allicin group recovered 3.5 days faster, on average.

In another study, participants given a daily aged garlic extract supplement were sick just as frequently as the placebo group. However, they reported 21% fewer symptoms and recovered 58% more quickly than the placebo group. To maximize garlic’s immune-boosting effects, aim to eat one clove two to three times per day.

Crushing the garlic and allowing it to stand for 10 minutes prior to cooking can also help increase its effects. Consuming two to three cloves of fresh garlic per day may help boost your immune system. Garlic seems particularly effective at reducing the symptoms and duration of the common cold and flu. You can learn more health benefits of garlic here.

6. Berries

For many years, Native Americans have used berries to treat infections like the common cold. This could be because berries are a rich source of polyphenols, a group of beneficial plant compounds with antimicrobial properties. For instance, quercetin, one berry polyphenol, is thought to be particularly effective at reducing your risk of getting ill after a bout of intensive exercise.

Studies also show that berries and their polyphenols have the ability to protect against the influenza virus responsible for the flu. They may even offer a defense against Staphylococcus, E. coli and Salmonella infections.

Berries also contain good amounts of vitamin C, which adds to their immune-boosting properties. Berries contain beneficial plant compounds that may help reduce your risk of viral or bacterial infections.

7. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a category of fats with antimicrobial properties. The most common type of MCT found in coconut oil is lauric acid, which is converted into a substance known as monolaurin during digestion. Both lauric acid and monolaurin have the ability to kill harmful viruses, bacteria and fungi.

For instance, researchers report that coconut fats may help fight off the types of bacteria that cause stomach ulcers, sinusitis, dental cavities, food poisoning and urinary tract infections. Researchers also believe that coconut oil may be effective against the viruses responsible for influenza and hepatitis C. It may also help fight Candida albicans, a common cause of yeast infections in humans.

You can easily add coconut oil to your diet by using it instead of butter or vegetable oils in cooking or baking. Consuming up to two tablespoons (30 ml) per day should leave enough room to continue including other healthy fats in your diet, such as avocados, nuts, olives and linseed oil.

However, you might want to increase your intake gradually to avoid the nausea or loose stools that can occur with high intakes. The type of fat found in coconuts may help protect you against various viral, bacterial and fungal infections.

8. Licorice

Licorice is a spice made from the dried root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant. It has been used in traditional herbal medicine in Asia and Europe for thousands of years. Studies show that licorice has the ability to fight some fungi and bacteria, including E. coli, Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus.

Licorice may also be able to fight the viruses responsible for the flu, gastroenteritis and polio. That said, many products containing licorice are also very high in sugar. Those trying to reduce their sugar intake should look for lower-sugar options, such as licorice tea.

In addition, consuming too much licorice may have a number of adverse effects, including high blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythm and an increased risk of premature birth. Individuals at risk of these should limit their consumption.

Licorice may help your body fight various viruses, bacteria and fungi. However, excessive intake may increase the risk of certain adverse effects, including high blood pressure. Learn more health benefits of licorice.

9. Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are incredibly nutrient-rich. They’re rich in selenium, copper, vitamin E and zinc, among other nutrients. All of these play a role in maintaining a healthy immune system. Sesame seeds and almonds are particularly good sources of copper and vitamin E, while pumpkin seeds and cashews are rich in zinc.

As for selenium, you can meet your daily requirement by eating just a single Brazil nut per day. Nuts and seeds are also great sources of fiber, antioxidants and healthy fats, all of which are beneficial for health.

Nuts and seeds are good sources of selenium, copper, vitamin E and zinc, all of which play an important role in immune health.

10. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are not only delicious — they’re also rich in vitamin A. Not consuming enough foods rich in vitamin A can lead to a deficiency, which studies link to a weaker immune system and a higher sensitivity to infections. For instance, one study reports that vitamin-A-deficient children were 35% more likely to suffer from respiratory symptoms, compared to those with normal vitamin A levels.

Another study reports that giving infants vitamin A supplements may help improve their response to certain vaccines. However, excessive vitamin A intake can lead to adverse effects such as nausea, headaches, weaker bones, coma and even premature death — especially if you take the vitamin A in supplement form.

High intakes of vitamin A supplements during pregnancy may also increase the risk of birth defects. Therefore, it might be safest to meet your vitamin A requirements through diet instead of supplements.

Besides sweet potatoes, other foods that are high in vitamin A include carrots, dark-green leafy vegetables, squash, romaine lettuce, dried apricots, red peppers, fish and organ meats.

Sweet potatoes and other vitamin-A-rich foods may help boost the immune system and lower the likelihood of infection.

11. Mushroom

Riboflavin present in mushrooms helps in proper functioning and maintenance of the red blood cells. They enhance the production of anti-viral proteins and repair of body tissues. Mushrooms also help in maturation of immune cells and improve the action of defence mechanism against microbes. Here are some other foods you can eat to improve your immunity. Read also health benefits of mushroom.

Top 23 Healing Herbs You Can Use Every Day

There are times when it might be smarter to use an herbal remedy than a pharmaceutical. For example, sometimes an herb offers a safer alternative. Take chamomile: The flowers have been used for centuries as a gentle calmative for young and old alike. It’s non-habit-forming and well tolerated, and a study sponsored by the University of Michigan found that chamomile extract had roughly the same efficacy as many prescription sleeping medications when given to adults with insomnia. Likewise, peppermint oil has been shown to be as effective as pharmaceutical drugs for relieving irritable bowel syndrome, but without the ofttimes dangerous side effects. And clinical studies have shown that ginger relieves morning sickness, sage can relieve a sore throat, and hibiscus tea gently lowers blood pressure.

It’s better to use mild remedies for minor health problems and save the more potent—and risky—prescription medications for more serious conditions. Here then, are top 25 favorite healing herbs and their uses. All are safe and effective, but be sure to discuss any herbs you are taking with your doctor. Some herbal remedies (such as the antidepressant St. John’s wort) can interact with medications.

1.  Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Uses: Rejuvenating tonic, anti-inflammatory, reduces anxiety, boosts immune health

Tea: Simmer 1 tsp dried and sliced root in 1 cup water or milk for 10 minutes. Strain. Drink 1 or 2 times per day.

Standardized Extract (2–5% withanolides): Take 500 mg 2 or 3 times per day.

Concerns: Can cause milk sedation; potential to stimulate thyroid hormones

2.  Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Uses: Calendula has long been used to relieve inflammation of the mouth, throat, and stomach; popular as a topical cream or ointment to relieve rashes and irritation and to help heal wounds.

Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 2 tsp petals. Steep for 10 minutes. Strain. Use as needed as a mouthwash, gargle, or tea.

Ointment: Apply to skin 2 or 3 times per day as needed.

Concerns: None known

3.  Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Uses: Soothes an upset stomach; reduced anxiety and tension

Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 4 or 5 fresh or 1 tsp dried leaves. Steep for 5 minutes. Strain and sweeten, if desired. Drink 1 or 2 times per day.

Concerns: None known

4.  Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus)

Uses: Premiere herb for relieving PMS symptoms

Capsules: Take 250–500 mg dried fruit once per day.

Tincture: Take 2–3 ml each morning.

Concerns: None known

5.  Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon)

Uses: Well-established treatment for reducing the risk of bladder infection; could also be beneficial for chronic prostatitis

Juice: Drink ½-¾ cup twice per day.
Capsules: Take 300–500 mg concentrated juice extract 2 times per day.

Concerns: None known

6.  Elderberry (Sambucus nigra, S. canadensis)

Uses: Elderberry flowers have been valued as a remedy for colds and fever for centuries; fruit extracts have been shown to have significant antiviral activity, especially against the flu.

Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1–2 tsp flowers. Steep for 10 minutes. Sweeten if desired and drink hot 2-3 times per day.
Berry extracts: Use as directed.

Concerns: None known

7.  Garlic (Allium sativum)

Uses: Potent antimicrobial; often used to combat colds, ease sinus congestion, and stave off traveler’s diarrhea. Studies show that regular use can help gently lower blood pressure.

Preparation and doses:
Eat: Eat 1–2 cloves fresh daily.
Capsules: Take 4–8 mg allicin per day; enteric-coated products may be superior if specifically treating diarrhea.

Concerns: May interact with warfarin

8.  Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Uses: Premiere remedy for easing nausea, vomiting, and upset stomach; fresh teas relieve cold and flu symptoms.

Tea: Steep ¼–½ tsp dried ginger or simmer 1 tsp fresh ginger root in 1 cup hot water for 10 minutes. Strain and sweeten, if desired. Drink 1–2 cups per day.
Capsules: Take 250–500 mg 2 times per day.

Concerns: Very safe in small amounts; heartburn and stomach upset can occur with high doses. Pregnant women should not take more than 1,500 mg per day of dried ginger.

9.  Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius; P. ginseng)

Uses: Helps relieve and prevent mental and physical fatigue; shown to reduce the frequency and severity of colds; possibly beneficial for erectile dysfunction

Tea: Simmer 1 tsp dried and sliced root in 1 cup water for 10 minutes. Strain. Drink 1–2 cups per day.
Standardized extract (4–7% ginsenosides): 100–400 mg per day

Concerns: Purchase from a reputable manufacturer, as ginseng has often been adulterated in the past.

10.  Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa)

Uses: Lowers blood pressure and has mild diuretic activity; traditionally used to ease sore throats and colds

Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1–2 tsp dried flowers. Steep for 10 minutes. Strain and sweeten, if desired. Drink 2 cups per day.
Capsules: Take 1,000 mg 2 times per day.

Concerns: Talk to your health-care provider if you have high blood pressure.

11. Hops (Humulus lupulus)

Uses: Excellent sleeping aid; smaller, daytime doses used to ease tension, restlessness, and anxiety; might help reduce hot flashes during menopause

Capsules: Take 200–300 mg 1-3 times per day.
Tincture: Take 2–4 ml before bed.

Concerns: Can cause sedation

12.  Horse Chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum)

Uses: Seed extracts shown to be highly effective for treatment of varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency (blood pools in lower leg veins after standing or sitting); topical gels can reduce swelling and tenderness due to injury.

Preparation and doses:
Seed extract (containing 100–150 mg aescin/escin): Take 600 mg per day in divided doses.

Concerns: Unprocessed horse chestnut seeds can be toxic; use only appropriately prepared seed extracts.

13.  Kava (Piper methysticum)

Uses: Clinical trials have shown kava to be highly effective for relieving anxiety. Also has significant muscle-relaxing effects.

Tea: Simmer 1 tsp dried and sliced root in 1 cup water for 10 minutes. Strain. Drink 1–2 cups per day.
Extract of root: Take 100–200 mg 2 or 3 times per day. (Do not exceed 210 mg per day of kavalactones.)

Concerns: Rare cases of liver toxicity; do not use if you have liver disease, frequently drink alcohol, or are taking acetaminophen or prescription medications.

14.  Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

Uses: Gentle calmative; eases tension, digestive upset, and colic; topical creams used for fever blisters

Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 5 or 6 fresh or 1 tsp dried leaves. Steep for 5 minutes. Strain and sweeten, if desired. Drink several times per day.

Concerns: None; suitable for all ages

15.  Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Uses: Excellent anti-inflammatory; soothes mucous membranes; useful for sore throats and coughs; protects and heals gastrointestinal tract

Tea: Simmer 1 tsp dried and sliced root in 1 cup water for 10 minutes. Strain. Drink 2 or 3 times per day for up to 7 days.
Capsules: Take up to 3,000 mg per day for 7 days. Do not exceed 500 mg per day if taking for longer than 7 days.

Concerns: Do not use high doses for longer than 1 week as it elevates blood pressure and causes potassium loss. (DGL, a special preparation commonly used for heartburn, is safe for prolonged use.)

16.  Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis)

Uses: Root and leaf are rich in mucilage, a substance that coats the lining of the mouth and throat, as well as the tissue that lines the gastrointestinal tract. Used for sore throat, heartburn, and minor GI inflammation.

Tea: Pour 1 cup hot water over 1 tsp dried and sliced root or 2 tsp leaf. Steep for 2 hours. Strain and drink as desired.

Concerns: Take other drugs 1 hour prior to or several hours after consuming marshmallow, as it could slow absorption of oral medications.

17.  Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Uses: Protects the liver from damage caused by environmental toxins, medications, and alcohol. Recent studies suggest it protects the kidneys similarly.

Extract (guaranteed minimum of 70% silymarin): Take 400–700 mg per day in divided doses.

Concerns: None known

18.  Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)

Uses: Leaves commonly used to relieve cough, sore throat, and chest congestion; steeped in oil, the flowers relieve earache.

Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1–2 tsp leaves. Steep for 10 minutes. Strain, sweeten, and drink as desired.
Ear oil: Use as directed.

Concerns: None known

19.  Nettle (Urtica dioica)

Uses: Fresh, freeze-dried leaves relieved seasonal allergy symptoms in one human trial. Research supports use of the root for easing symptoms of enlarged prostate. Tea widely recommended for its nutritive value.

Preparation and doses:
Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 2 tsp leaves. Steep for 10 minutes. Strain. Sweeten if desired. Drink 1–3 cups per day.
Freeze-dried nettle capsules: Take 300–500 mg 2 times per day.
Nettle root: Take 250–400 mg 2 or 3 times per day.

Concerns: Wear gloves when handling fresh nettles to avoid stinging and irritation (sting is lost with cooking or drying); very safe herb.

20.  Sage (Salvia officinalis)

Uses: Excellent for sore throat, cough, and colds; recognized in Germany as a treatment for excessive sweating; studies show it can help reduce menopausal hot flashes and night sweats.

Preparation and doses:
Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 tsp leaves. Steep for 10 minutes. Strain. Drink, or use as a sore throat gargle.
Capsules: Take 500 mg dried leaf 2 times per day.

Concerns: Do not use therapeutic doses during pregnancy; do not use sage essential oil internally.

21.   Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra)

Uses: FDA-approved as a safe, nonprescription remedy for minor throat irritation; also very useful for relieving cough and occasional heartburn.

Preparation and doses:
Lozenges: Take as directed.
Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1–2 tsp powdered bark. Steep for 5 minutes. Drink 2 or 3 times per day.

Concerns: Take other drugs 1 hour before or several hours after consuming, as it could slow absorption of oral medications.

22.  St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Uses: More than 40 studies have confirmed its effectiveness for relieving mild to moderate depression; may also relieve PMS symptoms and menopausal hot flashes, especially when combined with black cohosh.

Preparation and doses:
Standardized extract (standardized to 0.3% hypericin and/or 3–5% hyperforin): Take 300–600 mg 3 times per day.

Concerns: Talk to your physician or pharmacist before using if you are taking prescription medications; the chance for herb-drug interaction is high.

23.  Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Uses: Highly regarded for relieving coughs, colds, and congestion; rich in volatile oils that have significant antimicrobial and antispasmodic activity

Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 Tbsp fresh or 1 tsp dried leaves. Steep for 10 minutes. Strain and sweeten, if desired. Drink ⅓ cup 3 times per day.

Concerns: None known

Warning Signs of Cervical Cancer ( Don’t Ignore )

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers in women worldwide. It occurs in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.

The American Cancer Society estimates that about 12,900 new cases of cervical cancer will be diagnosed and about 4,100 women will die from this disease in 2015. These estimations are shocking but true.

Almost all cases of cervical cancer are caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV). Women of all ages are at risk of developing this cancer after they begin having sexual intercourse. Risk factors include unsafe sex, multiple sex partners, being overweight, use of oral contraceptives, genetics, smoking, poor immunity, multiple pregnancies and first pregnancy at a young age.

One of the scariest things about this cancer is that it does not show any symptoms in its early stages. After the disease has spread to the bladder, liver, intestines or lungs, the symptoms are more prominent. Being an adult woman, if you notice any unusual changes or symptoms affecting your reproductive organs, consult your doctor.

Always bear in mind that your chances of successfully treating cervical cancer are higher if it is detected during the early stages. With the use of Pap tests and the HPV vaccination, it’s become possible to treat as well as prevent cervical cancer.

With knowledge of the risk factors and warning signs of cervical cancer, you can save yourself and others from a lifetime of suffering.

Here are the top 10 warning signs of cervical cancer you should not ignore.

1. No Symptoms

Cervical cancer is a severe disease that usually presents without symptoms at all in the early stages. You should see your doctor to have regular checkups and undergo screenings for the initial signs of the disease if you are at heightened risk of this cancer. HPV infection as well as sexual activity with various partners, or with one partner who has the other sexual partners, are risk factors include. As above, HPV is one of the common causes of the cervical cancer. Smoking also increases your risk. When the cancer advances, you’ll likely experience evident early warning signs. Pelvic pain, urinary abnormalities, and abnormal bleeding are such early warning signs.  It is advised to see your doctor immediately if you see these symptoms.

2. Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding

Most women diagnosed with cervical cancer experience irregular bleeding. An untimely bout of vaginal bleeding that occurs regularly could be an indicator of cervical cancer. It could also be due to other medical conditions, such as a hormonal imbalance, pelvic inflammatory disease or an infection in the pelvic organs.

As cancer spreads to nearby tissues, it creates new, abnormal capillaries that break easily and cause bleeding. Such bleeding may happen between menstrual periods, after sexual intercourse, after menopause and even after a pelvic exam.

Contact your doctor if you experience bleeding between menstrual cycles or following sexual intercourse.

3. Unusual Vaginal Discharge

A little bit of clear, odorless vaginal discharge is normal. However, if vaginal discharge increases, smells foul or has an irregular appearance, it could be a sign of infection or cervical or endometrial cancer.

When suffering from cervical cancer, vaginal discharge could be heavy, pale, watery, brown or mixed with blood. If you experience this symptom, report it to your doctor immediately.

4. Pain during Intercourse

Painful intercourse is another important warning sign of cervical cancer. This symptom indicates advanced cervical cancer, which means the cancer has spread throughout tissues and reproductive organs. Apart from pain, you may also experience other symptoms, such as thick, foul-smelling vaginal discharge.

There are other possible reasons for this particular problem, such as an infection or STD. Do not ignore this symptom. Get your cervix examined by your doctor.

5. Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain is common among women. Cramping and aches are a normal part of the menstrual cycle and do not usually indicate the presence of cancer or any other serious condition. However, pain that lasts for longer periods of time and occurs more frequently could be a sign of cervical cancer.

If suffering from cervical cancer, you may experience pelvic pain at unusual times, and the pain may start suddenly at any time during the month. In addition, such pain usually does not occur unless the cancer is in a very advanced stage.

If you have experience pelvic pain or pressure, visit your doctor to find out the exact cause and rule out the possibility of cancer.

6. Discomfort while Urinating

Cervical cancer can also cause discomfort during urination. In fact, it is one of the most obvious and prevalent symptoms of this deadly disease. Urinary discomforts include burning, stinging or a tight sensation while urinating. Such symptoms occur when the cancer has spread to nearby tissue. This requires immediate attention to prevent further damage.

However, urinary discomforts also can be due to other causes, such as a urinary tract infection, bladder problem, yeast infection or sexually transmitted disease (STD).

Get checked by your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

7. Heavier and Longer Menstrual Periods

Menstrual periods that are heavier and longer than normal are another common warning sign of cervical cancer. Irritation of the cervix, possibly due to spread of cervical cancer, can cause this problem.

Bleeding is considered heavy if you have to change sanitary napkins or tampons more often than once every 2 hours.

Apart from cancer, heavy bleeding can be due to a hormonal imbalance, fibroids, polyps, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis or thyroid, liver or kidney disease. It can even happen due to certain medications.

Any change in the consistency of monthly periods should be discussed with your doctor. Remember that prevention is better than the cure.

8. Loss of Bladder Control

Needing frequent bathroom breaks is common among pregnant women and people who have increased their fluid intake. If you have this problem without any known reason, it may need further evaluation.

Bladder control is a primary issue when suffering from cervical cancer. It typically indicates that the cancer has spread beyond a localized area and is affecting the bladder or other parts of the urinary tract. People diagnosed with this cancer often experience loss of bladder control coupled with blood in the urine.

If you have loss of bladder control (incontinence) or notice blood in your urine, consult a doctor.

9. Unexplained Weight Loss

As with other forms of cancer, unexplained weight loss can indicate cervical cancer. When suffering from cancer, the immune system works hard to fight it. The body produces small proteins called cytokines, which break down fat at a much higher rate than normal. This leads to weight loss, irrespective of your diet.

If you are suddenly losing weight and have some of the other symptoms mentioned in this article, it could be due to cervical cancer. It’s important that you get a medical checkup.

9. Constant Fatigue

A busy day can wear anyone out, but with a little rest, you feel refreshed and full of energy. If you are feeling low or lack of energy most of the time, despite resting, it could be a cause for concern.

When suffering from cancer, healthy red blood cells are replaced by white blood cells to fight off the disease. This causes anemia, leading to fatigue, lack of energy and loss of appetite. In addition, there is decreased oxygen supply to the body.

An anemic response is a warning sign that the cancer is progressing rapidly, and you need to get it treated as quickly as possible.

10. Leg Pain

Women diagnosed with cervical cancer often experience swelling and pain in their legs. When the cancer spreads, it obstructs blood flow, which causes swelling in the legs. Swollen legs often create a sore, painful sensation, making it hard to carry out your day-to-day activities.

When caused by cervical cancer, the pain tends to be constant and increases in intensity over time. At times, there also may be back pain.

Remember, having leg pain does not mean you have cancer. If you have leg pain and a few more of the above-mentioned symptoms for a few weeks, it is best to get yourself checked by a doctor.

Preventive Tips

• Women between 20 and 30 years old should get a screening every 3 years. Those 30 to 65 years old should be screened every 3 to 5 years.
• Get an HPV vaccination before your early 20s.
• Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke.
• Take the right steps to prevent STDs. This will help reduce your risk of cervical cancer.