FAQ
everything you needed to know about gyn cancers

The most important things you can do to help prevent cervical cancer is HPV vaccination and to have regular screening tests starting at age 21. The Pap test (or Pap smear) and the HPV (human papillomavirus) test are specific tests used during screenings for cervical cancer. HPV vaccination can reduce the risk of cervical cancers by 80%. The HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that most often cause cervical cancers.

Early on, cervical cancer may not typically cause noticeable signs and symptoms. Advanced cervical cancer may cause bleeding, including bleeding between periods, or discharge from the vagina that is not normal for you.

There are 2 types of tests used for cervical cancer screening: the Pap test (or Pap smear) and the HPV test.

A Pap smear test will come back as “normal,” “unclear” or “abnormal.” An HPV test will come back as either “positive” or “negative.”

Don't be afraid to ask your doctor if you aren't sure what your test results mean in your particular case.

Treatment for cervical cancer depends on several factors, such as the stage of the cancer, other health problems you may have and your preferences. Treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.