Cervical Health and Fertility: The Connection Most Women Don’t Know About

According to a recent report by UNICEF, a woman dies from cervical cancer every two minutes. This clearly shows why it is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide. Cervical cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow in the cervix, the lower, narrow part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.

The beginning month of the year, January, marks Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, aiming to educate women and public healthcare workers. While discussions around symptoms and preventive measures are gaining momentum globally, many women remain unaware of how cervical health is linked to fertility. To understand this connection, we spoke to Dr Amreen Singh, Consultant - Infertility and IVF at Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital, Noida Extension. Continue reading to know what he shared with us.

Cervical Cancer and Fertility

"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 December 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) released a report citing that in 2022, an estimated 660,000 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer worldwide, and approximately 350,000 died from the disease. The report also noted that Sub-Saharan Africa, Central America, and Southeast Asia have the highest death rates due to this disease.

Speaking about its link with fertility, Dr Amreen Singh explains, "We see several women worried about their fertility, especially when getting pregnant takes longer than they hoped. Most are caught off guard when we bring up cervical health. 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."

The cervix acts as a gatekeeper, guiding sperm into the uterus. It not only protects the foetus by blocking infections but also provides a suitable environment for natural growth. If cervical health is compromised, it directly and in some cases indirectly affects a woman's fertility.

Also Read: Why Are Most Cervical Cancers Diagnosed Late? Oncologist On Changing The Narrative

Understanding the Cervix

The cervix sits between the uterus and the vagina. Around ovulation, it produces special mucus that helps sperm stay alive and move towards the egg. "When everything is working as it should, things flow naturally. But if the cervix isn't healthy, even the best sperm and eggs can miss their chance to meet," she says.

Why Viral Infections Like HPV Need Special Attention

One problem that often slips under the radar is chronic cervical infection. These do not always show clear signs, perhaps just a little extra discharge, some spotting, or mild discomfort after sex. It is easy to ignore.

Dr Singh underlines that, over time, inflammation can interfere with cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to pass through and lowering the odds of natural conception. "Cervical inflammation, or what is often called erosion, appears quite frequently during check-ups. It 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.

For some women, it can even allow infections to travel up to the uterus, adding further complications. Dr Singh emphasises why viral infections like HPV (Human Papillomavirus) need special attention. "While most HPV clears up on its own, if it persists, it can change the cells on the cervix. That is why catching it early matters most; a quick diagnosis means treatment can be simple, helping to keep the cervix healthy for future pregnancies," she states.

Also Read: Tamil Nadu Leads Nation as First State to Provide Free Cervical Cancer Vaccine for Girls Under 14

Impact of Lifestyle on Cervical Health

Dr Singh warns that infertility issues, cervical cancer, and infections are rising globally, with changing lifestyles playing a crucial role. She mentions that:

• Smoking
• Alcohol consumption
• A poor diet lacking in nutrients and proteins
• Increasing cases of stress and depression
• Skipping regular doctor’s visits and check-ups

All of these factors weaken the body’s natural defences, including the cervix's ability to protect the reproductive system from infection.

Also Read: Do Vaccines Really Prevent Cervical Cancer? Find Out Here

Prevention Tips

Dr Singh highlights that one in every five women infected with the HPV virus is Indian. Despite global and national campaigns to raise awareness, many remain uninformed that most cervical-related fertility problems are preventable and, if diagnosed in time, are curable.

Vaccination

According to the UNICEF report, routine vaccination against HPV, the leading cause of cervical cancer, can prevent most cases. When combined with regular screening and treatment, HPV vaccines play a central role in eliminating this deadly disease.

Regular Screening

Dr Singh emphasises that women aged between 21 - 65 should undergo routine Pap smears and HPV tests. Treating infections as soon as they appear goes a long way in protecting both health and fertility. "If you are planning to get pregnant, make sure a cervical check is part of your pre-pregnancy visit, not just the usual hormone tests or scans. Fertility is all about balance. Every part of the system counts. Paying attention to your cervix early gives you the best shot at a healthy, successful pregnancy," she highlighted.

Conclusion

The cervix plays an undeniable role when trying to conceive, as Dr Singh highlights that cervical health is often an underrated factor when addressing fertility problems. The UNICEF report states that millions of women, particularly those from rural areas and low-income families, lack awareness regarding cervical cancer, its link to fertility, and the fact that it is completely curable. January, Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, serves as a vital reminder to take proactive steps that can save millions of lives and help you start your own family.