10 Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

6. Irregular or Abnormal Cycles

Unexpected bleeding is fairly common in some scenarios, including after sexual intercourse, the days after a pap smear or tissue sample, times of intense stress, or when changing birth control or other hormones. A persistently irregular menstrual cycle is cause for concern, however. If the irregularities persist for three or more months and the woman is experiencing unexplained vaginal bleeding that is not part of the normal cycle, this is a red flag. Bleeding like this can indicate irritation of the cervix.