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Cervical Cancer
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Women

Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer develops in the cervix and is almost always caused by a long-lasting infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV).

What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is cancer that starts in the cells of the cervix, the lower, narrow end of the uterus that opens into the vagina. It usually develops slowly, starting as abnormal cells called "precancers." If these are not removed, they may become cancer cells that grow out of control.

What causes cervical cancer?

Almost all cervical cancers are caused by a long-lasting infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). High-risk HPV is common and passed through skin-to-skin contact, usually during sexual activity. While the immune system often clears the infection, if it persists, it can turn normal cervical cells into abnormal cells that eventually become cancer.

Who is more likely to develop cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is most common in people over age 30. Risk factors include:

  • Having a weakened immune system (e.g., due to HIV or immunosuppressive medicines)
  • Smoking tobacco or breathing secondhand smoke
  • Using birth control pills or having given birth to many children
  • Obesity
  • Exposure to the medicine DES (diethylstilbestrol) before birth

What are the symptoms of cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer usually doesn't cause symptoms when it first starts. Later symptoms may include:

  • Vaginal bleeding that's not normal (e.g., after sex or between periods)
  • Vaginal discharge that is watery, has a strong odor, or contains blood
  • Pelvic pain or pain during sex

If the cancer spreads, symptoms may include difficult or painful bowel movements, blood in urine, backache, swollen legs, or fatigue.

Diagnosis

If you have symptoms or an abnormal screening result, your provider will perform a medical history review, a pelvic exam, and diagnostic tests, including:

  • Colposcopy: Using a device called a colposcope to examine the cervix.
  • Cervical biopsy: Removing a tissue sample for examination under a microscope.

Treatment & Management

Treatment depends on your health and the stage of the cancer and may include:

  • Surgery
  • Radiation therapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Targeted therapy
  • Immunotherapy

Can cervical cancer be prevented?

Almost all cervical cancer can be prevented by:

  • HPV vaccination: Best given to children between ages 9 and 12.
  • Routine cervical cancer screening: Using a Pap smear to check for abnormal cells and an HPV test to check for high-risk infections.
  • Follow-up treatment: Addressing abnormal cells or high-risk HPV findings promptly.

Not smoking and using condoms correctly can also lower your risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends a Pap test every three years for women aged 21–29, and a Pap plus HPV co‑test every five years for women aged 30–65. If you have a history of abnormal results or are at higher risk, your provider may suggest more frequent testing.
The HPV vaccine targets high‑risk HPV strains (16 and 18) responsible for ~70% of cervical cancers. It is most effective when given before exposure, typically between ages 11–12, but can be administered up to age 26 (and in some cases up to 45). All individuals, regardless of gender, who have not been fully vaccinated should consider it to reduce future cancer risk.===
Yes, cervical screening is safe during pregnancy. A Pap test can be performed in the first trimester, and if abnormal, a colposcopy may be done with caution. HPV testing is generally avoided during pregnancy unless clinically indicated. Discuss timing and necessity with your obstetrician.
Early cervical cancer may still be asymptomatic, but later signs include abnormal vaginal bleeding (after sex, between periods, or post‑menopause), unusual vaginal discharge (especially with a foul odor or blood), pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, or urinary symptoms. If you experience any of these, seek evaluation promptly.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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