Lower back pain is a common complaint, but health professionals are urging women to pay attention to this symptom, especially when accompanied by other indicators. Such symptoms may signal one of the most prevalent cancers affecting women under the age of 35—cervical cancer. With over 3,000 cases diagnosed annually in the UK, particularly among those aged 30 to 34, it is crucial for individuals to be vigilant about their health.
Cervical cancer symptoms often manifest subtly, leading many to dismiss them as minor health issues. The condition can result in lower back and pelvic pain due to tumors pressing on surrounding tissues and nerves. Health experts recommend visiting a general practitioner (GP) if these pains occur alongside more recognizable symptoms, such as abnormal vaginal bleeding. Even if a recent cervical screening was clear, further examination may be warranted.
According to The Eve Appeal, vaginal bleeding is the most common symptom of cervical cancer. It can occur during or after sexual intercourse and may also present as bleeding between periods or after menopause. The charity emphasizes the importance of understanding one’s own body, stating, “The first step to being able to spot any cancer symptoms is to know your body and what is normal for you.”
If patients present these symptoms, GPs typically refer them for a colposcopy. This procedure differs from a routine cervical screening, using a small microscope to examine the cervix, and may involve taking a tissue sample. The Eve Appeal clarifies that cervical screenings are preventative measures aimed at detecting high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), the primary cause of cervical cancer. The screening identifies changes in cervical cells that could lead to cancer if left untreated.
HPV is a widespread virus, often asymptomatic, and transmitted through skin-to-skin contact in the genital region. The NHS highlights that most individuals will encounter some form of HPV during their lives. Risk factors for developing cervical cancer include being under 45 years old, although diagnoses in those under 25 are rare.
In an effort to improve screening rates, NHS England invites everyone with a cervix between the ages of 25 and 64 to participate in free cervical screenings every five years. Recent data from November 2024 reveals that uptake is particularly low among younger women, with only 58% of those aged 25 to 29 attending their screenings.
To address this disparity, MP Ashley Dalton announced plans for the NHS to introduce self-sample cervical screenings beginning in early 2026. In a recent statement, Dalton noted, “NHS England is transforming its approach to cervical screening for under-screened women. From early 2026, they will be offered a home testing kit, starting with those who are the most overdue for screening.”
These self-testing kits, which detect HPV, will allow individuals to perform screenings in the comfort and privacy of their homes. However, those who test positive for HPV will still need to follow up with a clinician for a cervical screening test, indicating that while self-testing may reduce some barriers to attendance, it may not eliminate them entirely.
As initiatives evolve to enhance cervical cancer awareness and screening, it remains critical for women to be proactive about their health. Recognizing symptoms and seeking timely medical advice can lead to early detection and significantly improve outcomes.
