Doç. Dr. Cengiz ANDAN
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×What causes cervical cancer? Learn about the role of HPV, the importance of Pap smears, and treatments like LEEP and fertility-sparing surgery. Expert guidance from Dr. Cengiz Andan in Istanbul.
Cervical cancer is unique in the medical world because it is one of the few cancers with a known cause: 99.7% of cases are due to HPV (Human Papilloma Virus). Because the cause is known, this cancer is also preventable with vaccination.
Cervical cancer does not develop overnight. It takes 10-15 years for the virus to cause changes that lead to cancer. This long window gives us a crucial opportunity to detect and treat the disease while it is still in the pre-cancerous stage (CIN lesions), effectively preventing cancer before it starts. Dr. Cengiz Andan advocates for regular screening as the key to making this disease a thing of the past.
The most typical and significant warning sign of cervical cancer is “Post-Coital Bleeding,” which is bleeding during or immediately after sexual intercourse.
Other symptoms may include:
If a Pap smear or HPV test shows suspicious results, a Colposcopy (a magnified examination of the cervix) is performed, and a biopsy is taken. If the biopsy reveals pre-cancerous lesions (CIN 2 or CIN 3) rather than cancer, the affected area is removed using LEEP (shaving with an electrical loop) or Conization (removing a cone-shaped wedge). These simple procedures prevent cancer development with 100% success in most cases and do not require removal of the uterus.
If a diagnosis of “Cervical Cancer” is confirmed, the treatment plan depends on the stage of the disease and the patient’s desire for future children.
Answer: No, absolutely do not panic. HPV is found in 80% of sexually active women at some point in their lives, and the body clears it most of the time. Being HPV positive means you have a “risk factor” and need close monitoring, not that you have cancer.
Answer: No. Even in radical surgeries where part of the vagina is removed, sufficient length remains for sexual intercourse. After a recovery period of about 2 months, sexual life can resume. If vaginal shortening occurs, regular intercourse helps maintain elasticity.
Answer: Yes. The vaccine protects against the most dangerous HPV types (like 16 and 18) but not all cancer-causing types. Therefore, even if you are vaccinated, routine screening must continue.
Answer: Yes. LEEP or Conization does not cause infertility. Because the cervix is shortened, there is a slightly increased risk of “cervical incompetence” (premature opening) during pregnancy, but this can be managed with a simple stitch (cerclage).
Answer: No. A Pap smear is a part of a standard gynecological exam. A soft brush is used to sweep cells from the cervix. It takes seconds, is painless, and saves lives.
Dr. Cengiz Andan is not just your surgeon in the fight against cancer; he is your partner, understanding your needs and guiding you toward the most accurate and effective treatment path.
Fill out the form to request a free consultation to get preliminary information about your treatment process or learn about treatment methods tailored to your specific needs.