Cervical Cancer-When To Call a Doctor Call your doctor if you have:

• Unexpected bleeding between menstrual periods.
• Menstrual periods that are irregular or 1½ to 2 times longer than normal for 3 months in a row. For example, call if your periods usually last 6 days but have been lasting between 9 and 12 days for your last 3 periods.
• Severe vaginal bleeding that causes you to soak 1 or 2 pads or tampons in 1 or 2 hours, or passing clots of blood from the vagina.
• Unexpected bleeding after douching or sex.
• Pain during sex.
• Abnormal vaginal discharge containing mucus that may be tinged with blood.

If you are diagnosed

If you have been diagnosed with cervical cancer, be sure to follow your doctor's instructions about calling when you have problems, new symptoms, or symptoms that get worse.

Who to see

Health professionals who can evaluate your symptoms and your risk factors, and who can diagnose cervical cancer include:

• Gynecologists.
• Obstetricians.
• Family physicians.
• Nurse practitioners.
• Physician assistants.
• Internists.

Doctors who can manage your cancer treatment include:

• Gynecologists.
• Gynecologic oncologists.
• Radiation oncologists.
• Medical oncologists.

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.