Cervical cancer is a cancer that begins in the cervix, the part of the uterus or womb that opens to the vagina. It is the part of the uterus that dilates and opens fully to allow a baby to pass into the birth canal. The normal cervix has two main types of cells: squamous cells that protect the outside of the cervix, and glandular cells that are mostly inside the cervix which make the fluid and mucus commonly seen during ovulation. Cervical cancer is caused by abnormal changes in either of these cell types in the cervix and is the only gynecologic cancer that can be prevented by regular screening and appropriate vaccination.
Know the Facts
• Almost all cervical cancer is caused by a persistent infection with high-risk type human papillomavirus, or HPV.
• The HPV vaccine is a safe and well-studied cancer prevention vaccine that can prevent cervical cancer and other HPV related cancers such as anal cancer and head/ neck/throat cancer.
• HPV vaccination is recommended for all children, boys and girls, ideally at ages 11 and 12. All people are recommended to get the HPV vaccine between 9 and 26 years of age but can choose to get the HPV Vaccine up until age 45.
• Vaccination before becoming sexually active can prevent most cervical precancer (a.k.a. dysplasia) and cancer and does not increase the onset of starting sexual activity or intimacy. • Regular Pap smears and HPV testing are important in preventing cervical cancer.
Symptoms • Cervical cancer usually affects women between ages 30 and 55, but younger and older women are also at risk if they have not had regular screening.
• Excessive discharge and abnormal bleeding between periods
• Bleeding after menopause
These symptoms may be caused by cancer or by other health problems. It is important for a woman to see her doctor and request a pelvic exam if she is having any of these symptoms. Most women will have no symptoms, so routine well woman exams along with regular Pap smears plus HPV tests—when recommended—is key to preventing cervical cancer. If your test results say you have cervical cancer, seek care from a gynecologic oncologist.