What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cervix, the narrow outer end of the uterus that extends into the vagina. It grows slowly, first appearing as abnormal cells in cervical tissue. These abnormal cells can eventually become cancer cells. Cervical cancer is typically identified by a Pap test (a procedure to collect and examine cervical cells) during a routine gynecologic exam.

Most cervical cancers are caused by high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV), a viral infection that can cause growths on the skin. When diagnosed early, cervical cancer is curable, and patients have an excellent chance of recovery.

At Penn Medicine, patients with cervical cancer receive care from a team of experts in the diagnosis, treatment, and research of gynecologic cancers. We are pioneers in gynecologic oncology and have a national reputation for providing outstanding patient care and innovative approaches to cervical cancer treatment.

Cervical cancer types

Cervical cancers are categorized by where and how they develop in the reproductive system. As a high-volume cancer center, we have experience treating a variety of cervical cancer types, including:

  • Squamous cell carcinoma: This is the most common type of cervical cancer, consisting of flat, thin cells called squamous cells that cover the surface of the cervix. This type of cancer is most often associated with human papillomavirus (HPV). 
  • Adenocarcinoma: This type of cancer develops in the mucus-producing glands of the endocervix, the opening to the uterus. 
  • Clear-cell carcinoma: This is a rare type of cervical cancer that can develop in the genital tract.

Cervical cancer symptoms

People with early stages of cervical cancer or precancerous cells usually do not experience symptoms. It’s not until the cancer grows that some symptoms become more noticeable. Your gynecologist may be able to see early cervical cancer signs, including irregular cells that can be detected with a Pap test, during your regular pelvic exam.

Symptoms of cervical cancer can include:

  • Unusual vaginal discharge 
  • Pain in the pelvic area 
  • Pain during sexual intercourse 
  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding, including after sex, after menopause, or between your regular periods

These symptoms can also be caused by conditions other than cervical cancer. It’s important to see your gynecologist regularly to have the best possible chance of identifying cervical cancer early, when it’s easier to treat.

What causes cervical cancer?

While it’s unclear what causes cervical cancer, many cervical cancer cases have been linked to certain types of high-risk HPV strains. Factors such as a weakened immune system, age, smoking, and missing routine Pap screenings can increase your risk of developing cervical cancer. If you have a high-risk form of HPV, smoking further increases your risk of developing HPV-related cancer. The HPV vaccine protects against the high-risk strains of the virus that can cause cervical cancer.

Ways to diagnose cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is often detected during a routine Pap test or gynecological exam. If an abnormal Pap test shows precancerous cells or suspected cancer, your doctor may recommend additional testing, such as a colposcopy or biopsy, to further examine the cervix and pinpoint a cervical cancer diagnosis.

Treatments for cervical cancer

Cervical cancer can be effectively treated if it’s detected early. Penn Medicine offers various treatment options, including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, clinical trials, and integrative medicine. We also provide extensive supportive and palliative care services to improve quality of life and recovery.

Penn Medicine: A leader in cervical cancer care

As a leader in cancer care and research, Penn Medicine provides advanced treatments and clinical trials that focus on the physical and emotional well-being of each patient to achieve the best possible health outcomes. When you choose us for your cervical cancer care, you’ll have access to:

  • Experienced specialists: The experts in our high-volume cancer center have seen a variety of cases and have experience diagnosing and treating even the most complex cancers. 
  • Collaborative care: Our team includes top oncologists, surgeons, and specialists who develop and deliver thorough treatment plans. 
  • Fertility and pregnancy support: Patients interested in starting a family can access specialized care from Penn Fertility Care and maternal-fetal medicine experts. 
  • Innovative HPV research: Our scientists lead research to prevent or detect recurrence of HPV-related cancers.
National Cancer Institute Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center badge on top of shot of hospital

Rated “exceptional” by The National Cancer Institute

Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center is a world leader in cancer research, patient care, and education. Our status as a national leader in cancer care is reflected in our continuous designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) since 1973, one of 7 such centers in the United States. The ACC is also a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, one of a select few cancer centers in the U.S., that are working to promote equitable access to high-quality, advanced cancer care.

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