In some cases, it can spread to the lower part of the vagina or pelvis, or it can block the ureters, which carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. Depending on the stage of the disease, it can even spread to other organs, including the lungs, bones, or liver. To diagnose cervical cancer, a doctor will perform a test called a Pap smear. Pap smears collect cells from the cervix and check them for precancerous changes.
Cervical cancer begins when healthy cells in the cervix develop mutations in DNA. DNA is the instructions that your cells follow and is the earliest sign of cervical cancer. Cancerous cells that change DNA can progress to become large or even tumors. There are several types of SILs, each with its own symptoms and treatments. Cervical cancer symptoms can range from mild to severe and can be classified into two main categories: adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
A biopsy is another way to diagnose cervical cancer. A doctor may recommend a cone biopsy to remove a sample of abnormal tissue. This procedure may be performed using a laser or a surgical scalpel. It is an outpatient procedure, and you can be discharged the same day. During the procedure, your healthcare provider may perform blood tests to check for other health problems. A CT scan can identify the presence of cancerous cells. A pelvic ultrasound can also help identify abnormalities of the cervix.
Cervical cancer during pregnancy is a rare condition. Most cases are discovered in the early stages. However, the treatments for cervical cancer during pregnancy are complex and rely on the stage of the cancer and your pregnancy. Early-stage cancer may not require treatment, while advanced stages may require a hysterectomy and radiation. Surgical procedures can make it more difficult for a woman to become pregnant and carry a baby.
Certain factors can increase your risk of cervical cancer. Poor health is associated with an increased risk of HPV infection. Smoking, HIV infection, and multiple pregnancy can increase the risk. Chronic use of oral contraceptives, birth control pills, and many children increase your chances of developing cervical cancer. Lastly, weakened immune systems may lead to an increased risk of cervical cancer. You can also lower your chances of developing cervical cancer by taking some preventive measures.
Getting an annual Pap test is crucial for women to protect themselves against cervical cancer. If you have had an abnormal result, your doctor may want to test your cervical HPV levels to determine if you’re infected with cancer-causing HPV. An additional test called colposcopy can help your doctor find cancer in the tissue. When your doctor performs this test, she can also take a tissue sample from your cervix.
