Answers to Your Questions About Cervical Cancer
All women, throughout their lives, are at risk of becoming infected with cervical cancer-causing human papillomavirus or HPV. That may not seem fair, but it's true.
What is the cervix?
The cervix is the lower narrow part of the woman's uterus (womb). It plays an important role in a successful pregnancy by keeping the uterus closed until the time of delivery. The cervix connects the uterus to the birth canal (vagina).
What causes cervical cancer?
HPV (human papillomavirus) is a virus that can infect the cervix. Some types of HPV can cause changes to the cells of the cervix that can lead to cervical cancer. HPV is passed from person to person through sexual or skin to skin contact.
HPV infections are very common. Most women who have had sexual contact, in fact, have been infected with HPV at some time in their lives. Most HPV infections clear up on their own and do not develop into cervical cancer.
However, some HPV infections do not clear up by themselves. Over time, these HPV infections can lead to cervical cancer and all the serious health problems that go with the disease. Sometimes cervical cancer results in death.
Can cervical cancer be prevented?
Yes. Vaccination can prevent the cancer-causing HPV viruses that cause most cervical cancer. Pap tests can detect changes in cervical cells so that they can be treated before becoming cervical cancer. This treatment includes removing the changed (pre-cancerous) cells before they can become cancer cells. The Pap test can detect changes in cervical cells very early. In addition, lifestyle changes can help prevent cervical cancer.
How does an HPV infection become cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer begins as an infection in the lining of the cervix and usually develops slowly, over time. However, most HPV infections will not become cervical cancer. Often, an abnormal Pap test is the first sign that there may be a problem. If the pre-cancerous cells do not go away on their own, they can become cervical cancer.
How is cervical cancer detected?
The Pap test detects changes in the cervix that might become cervical cancer if they are not detected and treated. The Pap test is part of a pelvic exam, done by a healthcare professional, often a gynecologist (women's reproductive health doctor).
How is cervical cancer treated?
If found early, cervical pre-cancers and cancers can be treated by removal. If cervical cancer progresses, its treatment may be similar to other types of cancer you've heard of, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these methods.
Is cervical cancer serious?
Yes, if not caught early, cervical cancer can be life threatening. Cervical cancer and its treatments may impact a woman's ability to have a baby. When discovered too late for effective treatment, a woman can die from cervical cancer.
When detected early, cervical cancer can be treated effectively, often completely.
For more information about cervical cancer and things you can do to help prevent cervical cancer, talk to your doctor.
