A woman dies from cervical cancer every two minutes, according to UNICEF, underscoring why the disease remains the fourth most common cancer among women globally. Cervical cancer develops when abnormal cells grow in the cervix, the lower, narrow part of the uterus that connects to the vagina, and can be life-threatening if not detected early. January, marked as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, aims to educate women and healthcare workers about prevention and early detection. While awareness around symptoms and screening is improving, experts say a crucial aspect often overlooked is the link between cervical health and fertility. To shed light on this, we spoke to Dr Amreen Singh, Consultant, Infertility and IVF at Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital, Noida Extension.
“Cervical cancer is a reproductive cancer that develops in a woman’s cervix and can spread to other parts of the body if not detected or treated in time,” as reported by UNICEF. In a December 2025 report, the World Health Organization (WHO) revealed that an estimated 660,000 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2022, with about 350,000 deaths worldwide. Sub-Saharan Africa, Central America, and Southeast Asia recorded the highest mortality rates.
Explaining its impact on fertility, Dr Singh notes that many women are unaware of the cervix’s role in conception. “We see several women worried about their fertility… Nobody really talks about the cervix outside of routine check-ups, but it is a small part with a big job when it comes to conception,” she says. The cervix acts as a gateway for sperm, protects against infections, and creates an environment essential for pregnancy, making its health critical to fertility outcomes.
Dr Singh adds that cervical infections, often caused by viruses such as HPV, frequently go unnoticed due to mild or absent symptoms. Over time, inflammation can disrupt cervical mucus and hinder sperm movement. “Cervical inflammation… is not always a major concern, but if left alone, it can lead to further infections and make it even harder to conceive,” she warns. Persistent HPV infections, she stresses, can alter cervical cells if not detected early.
Lifestyle factors are also contributing to rising cases of cervical disease and infertility worldwide. Smoking, alcohol use, poor nutrition, chronic stress, and skipping regular medical check-ups weaken the body’s natural defences, including the cervix’s ability to prevent infection, according to Dr Singh.
On prevention, UNICEF highlights that routine HPV vaccination can prevent most cervical cancer cases when combined with regular screening and timely treatment. Dr Singh recommends Pap smears and HPV tests for women aged 21 to 65, stressing early intervention. “If you are planning to get pregnant, make sure a cervical check is part of your pre-pregnancy visit… Paying attention to your cervix early gives you the best shot at a healthy, successful pregnancy,” she advises.
Experts conclude that cervical health remains an underrated yet vital factor in fertility and women’s health. With millions of women, particularly in rural and low-income communities, still lacking awareness, Cervical Cancer Awareness Month serves as a timely reminder that early detection, vaccination, and regular screening can save lives and safeguard future fertility.
