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Cervical cancer is cancer that starts in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus (womb) that opens at the top of the vagina.
Alternative NamesCancer - cervix
Causes, incidence, and risk factorsWorldwide, cervical cancer is the third most common type of cancer in women. It is much less common in the United States because of routine use of Pap smears.
Cervical cancers start in the cells on the surface of the cervix. There are two types of cells on the cervix's surface: squamous and columnar. The majority of cervical cancers are from squamous cells.
The development of cervical cancer is usually very slow. It starts as a precancerous condition called dysplasia. This precancerous condition can be detected by a Pap smear and is 100% treatable. That is why it is so important for women to get regular Pap smears. Most women that are diagnosed with cervical cancer today have not had regular Pap smears or they have not followed up on abnormal results.
Undetected, precancerous changes can develop into cervical cancer and spread to the bladder, intestines, lungs, and liver. It can take years for precancerous changes to turn into cervical cancer. Patients with cervical cancer do not usually have problems until the cancer is advanced and has spread.
Almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV (human papilloma virus). HPV is a common virus that is spread through sexual intercourse. There are many different types of HPV. Some strains lead to cervical cancer. (Other strains may cause genital warts, while others do not cause any problems at all.)
Other risk factors for cervical cancer include:
- Having sex at an early age
- Multiple sexual partners
- Sexual partners who have multiple partners or who participate in high-risk sexual activities
- Women whose mothers took the drug DES (diethylstilbestrol) during pregnancy in the early 1960s to prevent miscarriage
- Weakened immune system
- Poor economic status (may not be able to afford regular Pap smears)
Most ot the time, early cervical cancer has no symptoms. Symptoms that may occur can include:
- Continuous vaginal discharge, which may be pale, watery, pink, brown, bloody, or foul-smelling
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding between periods, after intercourse, or after menopause
- Periods become heavier and last longer than usual
- Any bleeding after menopause
Symptoms of advanced cervical cancer may include:
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Pelvic pain
- Back pain
- Leg pain
- Single swollen leg
- Heavy bleeding from the vagina
- Leaking of urine or feces from the vagina
- Bone fractures
Precancerous changes of the cervix and cervical cancer can not be seen with the naked eye. Special tests and tools are needed to spot such conditions.
Pap smears screen for precancers and cancer, but do not offer the final diagnosis. If abnormal changes are found, the cervix is usually examined under magnification. This is called colposcopy. Pieces of tissue are surgically removed (biopsied) during this procedure and sent to a laboratory for examination.
Other tests may include:
- Endocervical curettage (ECC) to examine the opening of the cervix
- Cone biopsy
If the woman is diagnosed with cervical cancer, the health care provider will order more tests to determine how far the cancer has spread. This is called staging. Tests may include:
- CT scan
- Cystoscopy
- MRI
- Chest x-ray
- Intravenous pyelogram (IVP)
Treatment of cervical cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, the size and shape of the tumor, the age and general health of the woman, and her desire to have children in the future.
Early cervical cancer can be cured by removing or destroying the precancerous or cancerous tissue. There are various surgical ways to do this without removing the uterus or damaging the cervix, so that a woman can still have children in the future.
Types of surgery for early cervical cancer include:
- LEEP (loop electrosurgical excision procedure) -- uses electricity to remove abnormal tissue
- Cryotherapy -- freezes abnormal cells
- Laser therapy -- uses light to burn abnormal tissue
A hysterectomy(removal of the uterus but not the ovaries) is not often performed for cervical cancer that has not spread. It may be done in women who have repeated LEEP procedures.
Treatment for more advanced cervical cancer may include:
- Radical hysterectomy, which removes the uterus and much of the surrounding tissues, including internal lymph nodes and upper part of the vagina.
- Pelvic exenteration, an extreme type of surgery in which all of the organs of the pelvis, including the bladder and rectum, are removed
Radiation may be used to treat cancer that has spread beyond the pelvis, or cancer that has returned. Radiation therapy is either external or internal.
- Internal radiation therapy uses a device filled with radioactive material, which is placed inside the woman's vagina next to the cervical cancer. The device is removed when she goes home.
- External radiation therapy beams radiation from a large machine onto the body where the cancer is located. It is similar to an x-ray.
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer. Some of the drugs used for chemotherapy for cervical cancer include 5-FU, cisplatin, carboplatin, ifosfamide, paclitaxel, and cyclophosphamide. Sometimes radiation and chemotherapy are used before or after surgery.
Support GroupsNational Cervical Cancer Coalition - http://www.nccc-online.org/
Expectations (prognosis)Many factors influence the outcome of cervical cancer. These include:
- The type of cancer
- The stage of the disease
- The age and general physical condition of the woman
Pre-cancer conditions are completely curable when followed up and treated properly. The chance of being alive in 5 years (5-year survival rate) for cancer that has spread to the inside of the cervix walls but not outside the cervix area is 92%.
However, the 5-year survival rate falls steadily as the cancer spreads into other areas.
Complications- Some types of cervical cancer do not respond well to treatment.
- The cancer may come back (recur) after treatment.
- Women who have treatment to save the uterus have a high risk of the cancer coming back (recurrence).
- Surgery and radiation can cause problems with sexual, bowel, and bladder function.
Call your health care provider if you:
- Are a sexually active woman who has not had a Pap smear in the past year
- Are at least 20 years old and have never had a pelvic examination and Pap smear
- Think your mother may have taken DES when she was pregnant with you
- Have not had regular Pap smears (ask your health care provider how often you should have one performed)
A new vaccine to prevent cervical cancer is now available. In June 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the vaccine called Gardasil, which prevents infection against the two types of HPV responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases. Studies have shown that the vaccine appears to prevent early-stage cervical cancer and precancerous lesions. Gardasil is the first approved vaccine targeted specifically to prevent any type of cancer.
Practicing safe sex (using condoms) also reduces your risk of HPV and other sexually transmitted diseases. HPV infection causes genital warts. These may be barely visible or several inches wide. If a woman sees warts on her partner's genitals, she should avoid intercourse with that person.
To further reduce the risk of cervical cancer, women should limit their number of sexual partners and avoid partners who participate in high-risk sexual activities.
Getting regular Pap smears can help detect precancerous changes, which can be treated before they turn into cervical cancer. Pap smears work very well in spotting such changes, but they must be done regularly. Annual pelvic examinations, including a pap smear, should start when a woman becomes sexually active, or by the age of 20 in a nonsexually active woman. If abnormal changes are seen, a colposcopy with biopsyshould be performed.
See also: Physical exam frequency
If you smoke, quit. Cigarette smoking is associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer.
ReferencesArmstrong C. ACIP Releases Recommendations on Quadrivalent Human Papillomavirus Vaccine. Am Fam Physician. May 1, 2007;75(9);1391-1380.
Kahn JA. HPV vaccination for the prevention of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. N Engl J Med. 2009 Jul 16;361(3):271-8.
Noller KL. Intraepithelial neoplasia of the lower genital tract (cervix, vulva): Etiology, screening, diagnostic techniques, management. In: Katz VL, Lentz GM, Lobo RA, Gershenson DM, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2007:chap 28.
NCCN Clinical Practical Guidelines in Oncology: Cervical cancer. V.1.2010. National Comprehensive Cancer Network, Inc. Available at www.nccn.org. Accessed December 28, 2009.
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Cervical cancer is the third most common type of cancer in women. It starts in the cells on the surface of the cervix. Cervical cancer is a slowly developing cancer, but is also 100% treatable. By having yearly pap smears, early detection is possible.
Almost all cervical cancers are caused by the human papilloma virus, or HPV. HPV is spread through sexual intercourse. Risk factors for cervical cancer include having sex at an early age, multiple sexual partners, a weakened immune system, or an inability to afford a pap smear checkup. Some symptoms of cervical cancer are abnormal vaginal bleeding between periods, periods becoming heavier than usual, back pain, leg pain, and a loss of appetite are just a few signs you may have cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer is very treatable if it is detected early enough. Treatment depends on the stage of the cancer, the woman's age, or her desire to have children in the future. If the cancer is detected early enough, the cancerous tissue can be removed surgically. There are three types of surgery for removing cervical cancer at an early stage. Loop electrosurgical excision procedure is the first type, which uses electricity to remove abnormal tissue. This procedure involves a thin, low-voltage electric wire loop to cut out the abnormal tissue. It is a very effective treatment and is less expensive then other treatments. Another type of treatment is Cryotherapy which freezes abnormal cells. during this procedure, liquid carbon dioxide circulates through a probe placed next to the abnormal tissue. It freezes the tissue causing some discomfort to the patient. Also laser therapy is another treatment option. It uses light to burn the abnormal tissue. It takes about five minutes for the procedure and has a minimal recovery time. If the cervical cancer has spread, an option may be to have a hysterectomy. If the cancer has spread, there is still a 92% survival rate if you begin treatment immediately. The best thing you can do to prevent cervical cancer is to make sure to have a yearly pap smear for early detection, and use precaution during sexual intercourse.
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Cervical cancer occurs as a result of abnormal cell growth activity in the lower part of the uterus. The common condition results in bleeding and causes heightened sensitivity to the pelvic region. The most common cause for the condition is HPV (human papillomavirus), which normally occurs as a result of sexual contact.
A woman with cervical cancer symptoms may experience sporadic bleeding varying from heavy to light. The abnormal bleeding activity occurs in between periods. Sensitivity to the area can also cause light bleeding. Douching, sexual contact, and a pelvic exam can all initiate spotting.
Pain is another common problem associated with cervical cancer. Cervical cancer causes pain during urination in some women. Women also report experiencing pain during sexual intercourse. A dull pain or aching sensation to the pelvic region outside of normal menstrual activity are potential signs of cervical cancer.
Discharge is another cervical cancer symptom that women typically experience. The discharge is usually thick and accompanied by odor. The vaginal discharge may or may not be accompanied by blood. Often the fluid resembles regular vaginal discharge, but it is present in larger amounts. The vaginal discharge usually occurs outside of the normal menstruation, lasting for several days at a time for some.
Women with certain conditions are more susceptible to the disease. Women who smoke are more likely to develop the condition due to the byproducts present in the tobacco. Women with conditions that affect the immune system such as HIV have greater risks. Women who have had children as a younger teen are more at risk for developing cervical cancer. Family history is also a risk factor for cervical cancer.
Most of the new cervical cancer cases occur in women under the age of 50. In the earliest stages of the condition, there are few symptoms, making it difficult to detect in women who do not have routine pap smears. A routine pap smear makes earlier detection possible.
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Cervical cancer is more commonly diagnosed in women under the age of 65, and the risk decreases after menopause. However, it's important to note that cervical cancer can still occur in women over 65, and regular screenings may be recommended depending on individual health factors, previous screenings, and vaccination history.
Here are some considerations regarding cervical cancer after the age of 65:
Screening Recommendations:
The guidelines for cervical cancer screening may vary based on individual health history, previous screenings, and the presence of risk factors. Some healthcare organizations may recommend continued screenings for women over 65, while others may suggest stopping screenings if certain criteria are met.
Vaccination Status:
The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is recommended for individuals before they become sexually active, typically in their preadolescent or teenage years. If a woman has been vaccinated against HPV and has consistently had normal Pap smears, the need for continued screening may be influenced by individual circumstances.
Health Status and Life Expectancy:
The decision to continue cervical cancer screenings after 65 may depend on a woman's overall health status, life expectancy, and any existing medical conditions. Women with a longer life expectancy and good health may continue screenings.
Individualized Approach:
The decision about cervical cancer screening should be made in consultation with healthcare providers. An individualized approach takes into account a woman's health history, screening results, vaccination status, and personal preferences.
Regular Check-ups:
Even if cervical cancer screening is no longer recommended, regular gynecological check-ups and pelvic exams are important for overall health and well-being.
It's crucial for women to discuss their specific situation with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate screening and preventive measures based on their individual health history and risk factors. Regular communication with healthcare professionals helps ensure personalized and effective healthcare decisions.
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Cervical cancer can be treated through surgery, chemotherapy or radiation depending on the stage of cancer and the personal preferences and medical history of a patient. Over the last few decades, the number of women diagnosed with cervical cancer and deaths related to this type of cancer have been declining due to improved and more accessible screening methods. Cervical cancer treatments are most effective for patients in the earliest stages and the ability to preserve future fertility is more likely with screening and early detection. Given the absence of symptoms during the early stages, it is critical that females undergo routine Pap smears by age 21 at the latest and young girls receive their immunization doses beginning at age 11 or 12.
In the majority of patients cervical cancer is caused by HPV, the human papillomavirus, responsible for genital warts and changes to the cervix. If screening indicates the presence of cancerous cells further diagnosis will be performed by examining the cervix and completing a biopsy to determine the extent of cancer and if it has spread beyond the cervical region. Hysterectomy is a complete removal of the uterus and is most effective with early stage patients. While this procedure essentially cures the individual of cancer by removing the cancerous cells, uterus and cervix, it also impacts the ability to become pregnant in the future. For women interested in becoming pregnant the decision to have a hysterectomy is complicated by multiple factors and they may elect a less-invasive treatment method in order to preserve future fertility.
Chemotherapy and radiation are the other cervical cancer treatment methods available to women. They may be utilized independently or in combination depending on how far the cancer has advanced. Cervical cancer treatment options should be discussed with a gynecologic oncologist to become informed about the side-effects and success rates of the different treatments. Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancerous cells and when given in combination with radiation, chemotherapy maximizes the benefits of radiation. Radiation therapy utilized alone is recommended for those in the earlier stages or as a way to shrink tumors prior to a hysterectomy.
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The cervix is the lower part of the uterus and is accessible through the vagina during a pelvic exam. Pap smears, performed during a pelvic exam, enable a doctor to take cells from the cervix and have them tested for abnormalities. This test is quick, relatively painless and normally only causes very mild discomfort. When caught early in its pre-cancerous stage, known as cervical dysplasia, cervical cancer is entirely curable. Unfortunately, the disease must fully develop into cancer before symptoms manifest. This is why yearly Pap smears are so vitally important. Pap smears catch the tell-tale abnormal cells before they become cancerous and before women have any symptoms. Treatments for cervical dysplasia include freezing the abnormal cells, using a laser to destroy them, excision and biopsy. Hysterectomy is also an option for women past their childbearing years.
The metamorphosis from dysplasia to cancer can take years or even a decade or more. One of the main symptoms of cervical cancer is abnormal bleeding. Any bleeding or spotting between periods, after intercourse, partial hysterectomy or after menopause should be immediately checked out by a doctor. Abnormal vaginal discharge that is watery, pink, bloody or brown may also be a symptom. Other seemingly innocuous symptoms that women may not associate with cervical cancer are pelvic pain, lower back pain and pain during urination and sexual intercourse. Hysterectomy which removes the uterus and cervix is one treatment for cervical cancer. This may be a good option for women who have gone through menopause or women who do not want to have children or have more children.
Chemotherapy may be used when the cancer has spread, or to attempt to shrink the tumor before radiation treatment. Chemotherapy and radiation are used for more advanced stages of the disease. Early cancers may be treated with the same procedures used for cervical dysplasia: freezing, laser and excision. These methods are utilized when the cervix needs to be preserved so that the patient can attempt to bear children after the disease is treated. The key to catching abnormal cells before they develop into cancer is yearly Pap smears. Even women who have never been sexually active need these tests. Cervical dysplasia is 100% treatable if caught before it becomes cancer.
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Cervical cancer is sometimes known by other names or terms, and these may include:
Cervix Cancer:
This is a straightforward term referring to cancer that originates in the cervix.
Uterine Cervix Cancer:
Specifies that the cancer occurs in the cervix of the uterus.
Invasive Cervical Cancer:
Refers to cancer that has invaded beyond the surface layer of the cervix.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Cervix:
Describes the specific type of cervical cancer that originates in the squamous epithelial cells lining the cervix.
Adenocarcinoma of the Cervix:
Refers to cervical cancer that originates in the glandular cells of the cervix.
Cervical Carcinoma:
A more formal term for cancer of the cervix.
Malignant Neoplasm of the Cervix:
A medical term indicating a cancerous growth in the cervix.
Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN):
Refers to precancerous changes in the cervix that may progress to cervical cancer if left untreated.
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There is a link between a specific virus and Cervical cancer being more likely.
However girl on girl will not make you more likely to get cervical cancer, otherwise there would be a huge number of lesbians worldwide with cervical cancer.
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Recent advances have increased treatment options for every stage of cervical cancer. Research into complimentary therapies have provided patients with effective ways to reduce symptoms, increase treatment efficacy, and lower the risk of recurrence. Surgical advances have made cervical cancer treatment possible for the small number of women diagnosed during pregnancy.
Early Stage Treatment OptionsStage IA1 is the most advanced form of cervical cancer where it is still possible to remove the cancer without purposely terminating the pregnancy. The only option here is cone biopsy. The removed tissue will be investigated to ensure the cancer was completely removed and had not spread to other tissues. If it has spread, fewer options will be available.
Stage 0 is also referred to cancer in situ. Most doctors consider this stage to actually be pre-cancerous because cells have not yet penetrated beyond the surface of the cervix. Numerous surgical options may be used, including:
- cone biopsy
- laser surgery
- cold knife conization
- loop electrosurgical excision
- cryosurgery
The choice of procedure at stage 0 will depend on the doctor's training, tools available, and the option deemed safest for the pregnancy. Regardless of the stage at diagnosis and success of the initial procedure, there is a risk of recurrence. The doctor will need to perform Pap smears or other investigation regularly to ensure the widest range of treatment options in case of recurrence.
Later Stage OptionsCancers at stage IB or higher have progressed beyond the surface of the cervix, and there is no effective treatment possible with continued pregnancy. Radical hysterectomy followed by radiation is the typical choice should the determination be to end the pregnancy. Other options may be available for women who would like to try to have another baby after recovery from surgery.
It may be possible to continue the pregnancy until the baby is developed enough to be delivered via Cesarean section. Neonatal care has advanced a great deal, and babies born as early as 27 weeks have good survival odds with the right staff and technology. Cervical cancer treatment can proceed according to the doctor's recommendations after delivery.
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Cervical cancer is not contagious. However the virus, HPV, is sexually transmitted. There is a strong association between HPV infection and cervical cancer.
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One can find statistical information about cervical cancer via many online resources. Cancer Research UK, Cancer.gov and wikipedia all provide statistical information on cervical cancer.
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No. Cervical cancer is caused from a viral infection. Pregnancy presents no risk factor.
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Yes girls only get cervical cancer, because only girls have a cervix.
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Almost all cervical cancer is caused by the human papillomavirus.
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If you have cervical cancer then nothing is safe. You will die if it is not treated.
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Cervical cancer is cancer of the cells lining the cervix which is the passage between the uterus and the vagina. You can prevent cervical cancer by monitoring risk factors for cervical cancer. Find out more about the several risk factors that increase your chance of developing cervical cancer.
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A urinary tract infection cannot and will not turn into cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is typically caused by HPV. HPV has nothing to do with urinary tract infection.
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HPV is the infection that puts women at risk for Cervical cancer. The vaccine against cervical cancer lowers the risk significantly.
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Infection with HPV causes Cervical cancer. Only the high-risk subtypes, like 16 and 18, are associated with cancer.
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About 15 high-risk HPV types have been identified which can lead to cervical cancer. HPV types 16 and 18 are most commonly associated with cervical cancer and together are estimated to account for 70% of cervical cancer cases.
The HPV-16 strain is thought to be a cause of about 50% of cervical cancers.
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Almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV (human papilloma virus). HPV is a common virus that is spread through sexual intercourse and other contact.
Male and female condoms cannot fully protect you because the virus or warts can be on the skin. Nonetheless, condoms reduce your risk, and you should still use them at all times. HPV can be passed from person to person even when there are no visible warts or other symptoms.
To further reduce the risk of cervical cancer, women should limit the number of their sexual partners and avoid partners who participate in high-risk sexual activities.
If you smoke, quit. Cigarette smoking is associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer.
Vaccines to Prevent Cervical CancerTwo vaccines are available to protect against four of the HPV types that cause most cervical cancer in women. The vaccine is given as a series of three shots. It is recommended for girls and women ages 9 - 26.
It is best for girls to receive the vaccine by age 11 or before becoming sexually active. However, even girls and younger women who have already been sexually active can still gain protection from the HPV vaccine.
Pap SmearsCervical cancer usually develops very slowly. It starts as a precancerous condition called dysplasia. This precancerous condition can be detected by a Pap smear and is 100% treatable.
That is why it is so important for women to get regular Pap smears. Most women who are diagnosed with cervical cancer today have not had regular Pap smears or they have not followed up on abnormal Pap smear results.
Screening should start at age 21. After the first test:
- Woman should have a Pap smear ever 2 years to check for cervical cancer.
- If you are over age 30 or your Pap smears have been negative three times in a row, your doctor may tell you that you need a Pap smear only every 3 years.
- If you or your sexual partner have other new partners, you should have a Pap smear every 2 years.
- After age 65 - 70, most women can stop having Pap smears as long as they have had three negative tests within the past 10 years.
- If you have a new sexual partner after age 65, you should begin having Pap smear screening again.
Smith RA, Cokkinides V, Brooks D, Saslow D, Brawley OW. Cancer screening in the United States, 2010: a review of current American Cancer Society guidelines and issues in cancer screening. CA Cancer J Clin. 2010 Mar-Apr;60(2):99-119.
Pham H, Geraci SA, Burton MJ; CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. Adult immunizations: update on recommendations. Am J Med. 2011 Aug;124(8):698-701.
Kahn JA. HPV vaccination for the prevention of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. N Engl J Med. 2009 Jul 16;361(3):271-8.
Reviewed ByReview Date: 11/08/2011
Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Bellevue, Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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Cervical cancer is cancer of the cells lining the cervix which is the passage between the uterus and the vagina. You can prevent cervical cancer by monitoring risk factors for cervical cancer. Find out more about the several risk factors that increase your chance of developing cervical cancer.
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Most cervical cancer is caused by human papillomavirus, which is spread by sex.
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There is no conclusive evidence that the use of baby powder causes cervical cancer.
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A pap smear is a screening test for cervical cancer.
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If your cervix has been removed, you cannot get cervical cancer again. However another related cancer, such as vaginal or vulvar, can occur. Regular treatment and follow up is always recommend.
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The various treatments for cervical cancer include surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy depending on the type and stage of cancer that you've been diagnosed with.
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Cervical cancer ribbons and gifts can be received for donations to the research for a cure of cancer. They can also be purchased from stores that then donate a portion of the sale to the research of cancer.
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No. But since cervical cancer is caused by a sexually transmitted virus, cervical screening is usually only recommended for someone who has been sexually active.
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Cervical cancer itself does not directly cause cervical incompetence. Cervical incompetence, also known as an incompetent cervix, is a separate medical condition characterized by a weakened or insufficiently strong cervix, the lower part of the uterus. It can lead to the premature opening of the cervix during pregnancy, increasing the risk of preterm birth or miscarriage.
Cervical cancer is a condition where malignant cells develop in the cervix, which can lead to various symptoms and complications related to cancer, but it is not the direct cause of cervical incompetence. However, treatments for cervical cancer, such as surgery to remove part or all of the cervix (e.g., a hysterectomy), can potentially impact cervical integrity and may be associated with cervical incompetence.
It's important for individuals with cervical cancer or concerns about cervical health to consult with their healthcare providers for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate management of any associated conditions.
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Cervical cancer can be caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV), but not all cases of cervical cancer are caused by a virus. Other risk factors for cervical cancer include smoking, weakened immune system, obesity, and long-term use of birth control pills. Regular screening and HPV vaccination can help prevent cervical cancer.
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cervical cacer vaccine is not usefull
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No, but a woman with cervical cancer may have contracted other sexually transmissible infections in addition to the HPV that caused the cancer, and should be screened for these infections.
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i dont know but is you do have a misscarige ia m really.really sorry.
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Cervical cancer is uncontrolled growth of cells in the uterine cervix. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that protrudes into the vagina.
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Abnormal results from a routine Pap test or the appearance of cervical cancer symptoms will trigger diagnostic procedures to confirm a diagnosis. The most common of these is the colposcopy, which involves magnification and is almost entirely non-invasive, combined with biopsy of the abnormal tissue and inspection of the pelvic lymph for swelling. Cervical biopsy is the first step toward staging the cancer. If the abnormal area is relatively small, a cone biopsy may be used immediately to remove all affected tissue.
Lab tests will be run on any tissue removed. For a cone biopsy, this will include a check for positive margins. Cancer cells found at the edge of the tissue can mean there was cancerous tissue left behind. Beginning with the Pap smear, lab tests will be ordered to determine whether the abnormal cells constitute an adenoma or squamous cell growth. This determination is an important factor in defining a successful treatment plan.
Difference Between Squamous and Adenomatous TissueThere are many theories on the ultimate causes of cancer, but it is generally acknowledged to be damage to the DNA that results in rapid cellular reproduction. Damaged cells will retain some of the characteristics of their origin. Squamous cells make up epithelial tissue throughout the body, including the skin, digestive lining, vaginal lining, and the surface of the cervix.
Squamous cell cancers are the most common and relatively easier to treat than other forms. They are also the easiest to diagnose with abnormal cells appearing on the surface of the cervix. Adenomatous abnormalities, on the other hand, may be located higher in the cervical canal.
Adenomatous tissue originates in glands, which are where hormones and other biochemicals are synthesized to regulate metabolism and other processes. Adenocarcinoma is often treated more aggressively when detected early enough for surgery alone to present a high possibility of success. Doctors typically prefer to perform a simply hysterectomy after diagnosis of adenocarcinoma. This is in part due to the difficulty with differentiating the most aggressive adeno-squamous cancer from adenocarcinoma. Cone biopsy and other options may still be used first, if the goal is preserving reproductive function.
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If you are looking for more information on How successful is treatment of cervical cancer, the best place to look for the information is on www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/treatment/cervical/Patient/page4
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