The cervix is at the bottom of the uterus (womb), connecting the uterus to the vagina. The cervix is looked at 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 individuals 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. You may need to have screenings more often if you have:

HIV.
A weakened immune system.
Been exposed to DES before birth.
Had issues with your 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, like 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 your Pap test results 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 (one) to stage IV (four). Stage I is the smallest tumors and stage IV are tumors that have spread to other areas of the body. The stage of your cervical cancer will guide your treatment plan.

Treatment

These 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: Uses high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells.
- Brachytherapy is a certain type of radiation therapy that may be used to treat cervical cancer.
Chemotherapy: The use of medications to kill cancer cells. It may be given after surgery to kill any cancer cells that are still in the body.
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

Radiation Treatment for Gynecologic Cancers