Cervical Cancer - Summary, Symptoms & Treatments

What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer occurs in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It often develops slowly over time and is primarily caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted virus. Not all HPV infections lead to cervical cancer, but certain strains significantly increase the risk.
 
Squamous cell carcinoma, which starts in the squamous cells that line the outer part of the cervix, is the most common type of cervical cancer. Adenocarcinoma develops from the glandular cells in the cervical canal. It is less common but can be more challenging to detect early.
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What are the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer?

Early stages of cervical cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. As the cancer progresses, symptoms may include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as between periods, after intercourse or post-menopause
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Pelvic pain
• Pain during intercourse

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How is cervical cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosing cervical cancer begins with a physical examination so that your doctor can evaluate the symptoms you are experiencing and discuss your health history in detail. A series of tests and procedures can assist with diagnosis.
 
A Pap smear is a routine screening test for cervical cancer. It involves collecting cells from the cervix to check for abnormalities that might indicate cancer or precancerous changes (dysplasia). Abnormal results may indicate the need for further testing, but they do not confirm cancer. Since most cervical cancers are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), an HPV test is often done along with a Pap smear to detect high-risk strains of the virus. This test is similar to a Pap smear but looks specifically for the presence of HPV DNA.
 
If abnormal cells are found during a Pap smear or HPV test, a colposcopy may be recommended. A colposcope is a special magnifying instrument that allows a doctor to get a detailed view of the cervix. A biopsy, in which small tissue samples are taken from the cervix, may also be done to confirm the presence of precancerous cells. Imaging tests, such as MRI, CT or PET scans, may also help determine the extent (stage) of any cancer and whether it has spread to nearby tissues or organs.
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What causes cervical cancer?

Almost all cervical cancers are caused by the sexually-transmitted Human Papilloma Virus, or HPV, which can weaken the immune system and put women at high risk for infection. While most women who have an HPV infection will not go on to develop cervical cancer, a small percentage will.
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Is cervical cancer genetic?

Cervical cancer is not primarily genetic. It is overwhelmingly caused by infection with certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is transmitted through sexual contact. However, there are some factors related to genetics that can slightly increase the risk of cervical cancer. It is best to talk with your doctor about any genetic factors that may be present.
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Is cervical cancer curable?

Cervical cancer is curable, particularly when detected early through regular screening and HPV testing. Early-stage cervical cancer has a high cure rate, while more advanced cases can still be treated effectively, though with lower chances of a complete cure. Regular Pap smears, HPV vaccination and prompt treatment of abnormal findings are critical to improving outcomes and reducing the risk of developing advanced cervical cancer.
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Is there a screening test for cervical cancer?

A Pap smear is a routine screening test for cervical cancer. It involves collecting cells from the cervix to check for abnormalities that might indicate cancer or precancerous changes (dysplasia). A healthcare provider uses a speculum to open the vagina and gently scrapes cells from the cervix using a small brush or spatula. Abnormal results may indicate the need for further testing, but they do not confirm cancer.
 
Since most cervical cancers are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), an HPV test is often done along with a Pap smear to detect high-risk strains of the virus. This test is similar to a Pap smear but looks specifically for the presence of HPV DNA. Regular cervical cancer screening is crucial because it can detect precancerous changes or early-stage cancer when it is most treatable.
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What are the best things women can do to reduce the risk of cervical cancer?

The most effective ways for a woman to reduce her risk of cervical cancer are by getting vaccinated against HPV, undergoing regular screening tests (Pap smear and/or HPV testing), practicing safe sex and avoiding risk factors like smoking.
 
HPV vaccination protects against the most common high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV types 16 and 18, which cause about 70% of cervical cancer cases. The vaccine is most effective when given before someone becomes sexually active, typically recommended for girls and boys aged 9-12. Vaccination is also recommended for women (and men) up to age 26, and sometimes up to age 45, depending on circumstances, although the benefit decreases if they’ve already been exposed to HPV.
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How does FCS treat cervical cancer?

Each patient and each cancer is unique. At FCS, physicians develop a personalized treatment plan in partnership with patients. Treatment options for cervical cancer depend on a number of factors, including the specific type, size, location and grade of the tumor, the patient’s overall health and whether she wants to preserve her fertility. Surgery is often the first choice of treatment for cervical cancer, especially in early stages. Advanced-stage cancer usually requires a combination of radiation, chemotherapy, and sometimes targeted therapy or immunotherapy.
 
FCS is committed to advancing treatment and outcomes for patients with gynecologic cancer. Each year, dozens of clinical trials are conducted within FCS to find newer, better and more targeted treatments for the different types of gynecologic cancer. Our physicians have been involved with several of the most recent developments for gynecologic cancer therapies and have presented their findings at national and international forums.
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