Cervical Cancer

What is cervical cancer? 

Cervical cancer is cancer of your cervix, the lower, narrow part of the uterus, located between the bladder and the rectum. It forms a canal that opens into the vagina, which leads to the outside of your body. 

Screening for cervical cancer

There are two important tests that can detect cervical cancer.

• A Pap test (formerly called a Pap smear) gathers cells from the cervix and tests them for cervical cancer. This test identifies abnormal cervical cells that signal potential cancer or precancer (cells that could lead to cancer if not treated). The earlier cervical cancer is detected, the greater the chance it can be cured.
• The human papillomavirus (HPV) test looks for types of HPV that are most likely to cause cancer. It’s estimated that nine of every 10 cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV.

Learn more about cervical cancer screening.

A team approach to cervical cancer treatment

We bring together experts across many specialties to evaluate and treat your cervical cancer. That means whether you’re being diagnosed for the first time or looking for a second opinion, you will meet with our Gynecologic Cancer Multidisciplinary Consultation Program (Gynecologic MDC) team. This includes a gynecologic oncologist, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist and patient navigator.

You will see the entire team of specialists the same day. Team members will review every aspect of your case and offer the best treatment recommendation – this approach is most effective in aggressively and successfully treating cancer. You will be connected to a caring support team that includes financial counselors, social workers and others who will be available to you. 

Our team also has access to groundbreaking research and clinical trials, to provide you with the most advanced options in your cancer journey.