But, between 1955 and 1992, cervical cancer deaths declined by a staggering 74 percent. This drastic change is attributed to the use of the Pap test, or Pap smear, for early detection. The American Cancer Society recommends that women begin yearly Pap tests at age 18 or when they become sexually active. Early cervical pre-cancer or cancer often have no signs or symptoms. That's why it's important for women to have regular Pap tests.
Symptoms usually appear when the cancer is further along.
You should report any of the following to your doctor right away. Any unusual discharge form the vagina Blood spots or light bleeding other than your normal period Bleeding or pain during sex Of course, these symptoms do not mean that you have cancer. They can also be caused by something else.