What Is Cervical (Cervix) Cancer?

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops as a result of abnormal changes and uncontrolled growth of cells in the cervix, the transitional area between the uterus and the vagina. In most cases, these cellular changes are associated with certain types of HPV (Human Papillomavirus). Since cervical cancer often progresses slowly, early diagnosis significantly increases treatment success and helps prevent disease progression.

Types of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is generally classified into two main types:

1. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

This type arises from the squamous epithelial cells covering the outer surface of the cervix. It accounts for the majority of cervical cancer cases.

2. Adenocarcinoma

This type originates from the glandular cells located inside the cervical canal. Although less common, its incidence has increased in recent years.

In both types, cellular changes are most often associated with HPV infection.

Stages of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer stages are classified to determine how far the disease has spread:

• Stage 0: Superficial cellular changes (CIN / carcinoma in situ)
• Stage I: Cancer is confined to the cervix
• Stage II: Cancer has spread beyond the cervix but has not reached the pelvic wall
• Stage III: Cancer may involve the pelvic wall, lower part of the vagina, or regional lymph nodes
• Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant organs

Staging plays a critical role in treatment planning.

What Causes Cervical Cancer?

The most common cause is long-term infection with high-risk HPV types.
 Other contributing and risk-increasing factors include:

• Persistent HPV infection
• Smoking
• Weakened immune system
• Multiple sexual partners
• Early onset of sexual activity
• Lack of regular Pap smear / HPV screening
• Family history of cervical cancer

Although HPV infection is common, not everyone who is HPV-positive develops cervical cancer.

What Are the Symptoms of Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer may not cause symptoms in its early stages. Symptoms that may appear in advanced stages include:

• Bleeding after sexual intercourse
• Irregular bleeding outside of menstrual periods
• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
• Pelvic or lower back pain
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• In advanced stages, leg swelling or urinary problems

These symptoms are not specific only to cervical cancer; medical evaluation is essential.

Cervical Cancer Risk Factors

• HPV infection
• Smoking
• Suppressed immune system
• Long-term use of oral contraceptives
• Multiple childbirths
• Low socioeconomic status
• Lack of routine screening tests

The presence of risk factors increases the importance of regular screening.

How Is Cervical Cancer Diagnosed?

Cervical cancer is diagnosed using Pap smear testing, HPV testing, and, when necessary, colposcopy. In Üsküdar cervical (cervix) cancer evaluations, these diagnostic methods are also used as standard clinical practice.

• Pap Smear Test: Detects cellular changes in cervical cells
• HPV Test: Identifies high-risk HPV types
• Colposcopy: Magnified examination of the cervical tissue
• Biopsy: Pathological examination of tissue samples for definitive diagnosis

These methods are critical for early detection.

Cervical Cancer Treatment

Treatment depends on the stage of cancer, the patient’s age, and overall health status:

• Early Stage: Procedures such as conization, LEEP, or surgical interventions may be preferred
• Advanced Stage: Radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or combined treatment approaches may be applied

Treatment decisions are individualized for each patient and require specialist evaluation.

How Can Cervical Cancer Be Prevented?

• HPV vaccination
• Regular Pap smear and HPV screening
• Safe sexual practices
• Smoking cessation
• Strengthening the immune system
• Limiting the number of sexual partners or practicing monogamy

HPV vaccination does not guarantee complete prevention of cervical cancer but significantly reduces the risk.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cervical (Cervix) Cancer