Cervical Cancer: The Basics
The cervix is at the bottom of the uterus (womb), connecting the uterus to the vagina. The cervix can be seen and tested by your healthcare provider during a pelvic exam. Cervical cancer happens when cervical cells grow out of control. As the number of cells grows, they form a tumor. The most common type of cervical cancer is called squamous cell carcinoma. When cervical cancer spreads from the cervix to another part of the body, it is called metastatic cervical cancer.
Risk factors
Almost all cervical cancers are caused by a virus called HPV (human papillomavirus). HPV is a sexually transmitted disease that is very common. However, very few women who have HPV will develop cervical cancer. Having HPV doesn't mean that you will get cancer.
Other things that raise the risk of developing cervical cancer include having multiple sexual partners, having other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), HIV infection, and smoking.
Screening
Screening for cervical cancer depends on your age, history of abnormal Pap tests, and history of cervical pre-cancer. Some women will need more frequent screenings, like those who have:
- HIV.
- A weakened immune system.
- Been exposed to DES before birth.
- Had issues with their cervix in the past.
Ask your provider what screening is right for you.
Signs & Symptoms
Most people don't notice the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer until the tumor has grown in size. Symptoms can be:
- Bleeding that is not normal, such as bleeding after sex, in between periods, heavier/longer lasting menstrual bleeding, or bleeding after menopause.
- Vaginal discharge that is not normal (may smell bad).
- Pelvic or back pain.
- Pain with peeing.
- Blood in the stool or urine.
- Pain during sex.
Diagnosis
If the results of your Pap test are not normal, your provider will ask you to have more testing done. These tests may be HPV testing, repeat pap test in a few months, or a biopsy. A biopsy is done to see if the abnormal pap result is cancer or not.
Staging
To guide treatment, cervical cancer is "staged." The stage is based on:
- Where and how big the tumor is.
- If there are cancer cells in the lymph nodes.
- If cancer cells have spread to other areas of the body.
Stages range from stage I (smallest tumors) to stage IV (tumors that have spread to other areas of the body). The stage of your cervical cancer will guide your treatment plan.
Treatment
The following treatments may be used:
- Surgery is the main treatment when the cancer is in an early stage. The type of surgery will depend on the stage of cancer and if the patient wishes to have children in the future. The cervix, uterus and possibly the ovaries will be removed. This is called a hysterectomy.
- Radiation therapy is often used in patients with cervical cancer.
- Chemotherapy may also be used to treat cervical cancer.
- These treatments may be used alone or in combination.
This article is a basic guide to cervical cancer. You can learn more information about cervical cancer and treatment by using the links below.
Cervical Cancer: Staging and Treatment
Surgical Procedures: Surgical Staging for Cervical Cancer
Surgical Procedures: Hysterectomy