Cervical Cancer FAQ

Each year, about 1,000 women in the United States learn they have cervical cancer.

Because it’s one of the most common types to affect a woman’s reproductive organs, women often have a lot of questions about cervical cancer and the services we provide. Below are the answers to the most common questions we receive about cervical cancer.

To make an appointment with an MD Anderson at Cooper gynecologic cancer expert, call 855.MDA.COOPER (855.632.2667).

What are the causes of cervical cancer?

A sexually transmitted virus called the human papillomavirus (HPV) causes almost all cases of cervical cancer. HPV usually goes away by itself but sometimes a high-risk form of the infection can stimulate the growth of precancerous cells in the cervix. If these abnormal cells are not found and treated, they may become cancerous.

What are the cervical cancer treatment options by stage?

Treatment options for women with cervical cancer will depend on the stage of the cancer, the size of the tumor, whether the patient wishes to have children, and her age and overall health. The following are among the possible treatment options for each stage of cervical cancer.

How serious are precancerous cells?

Before cervical cancer appears, the cells of the cervix go through precancerous changes known as dysplasia. For some women, these changes may go away without any treatment. More often, they need to be treated to keep them from changing into cancer. Precancerous cells and lesions are usually curable if caught early; therefore, a woman should continue with regular Pap tests and pelvic exams, especially if she has HPV.

How are precancerous cells treated?

Some precancerous cells and lesions may not need further treatment, especially if the abnormal area was completely removed during a biopsy. If treatment is needed your doctor may use cryosurgery (freezing) or laser surgery to destroy the abnormal area without harming nearby healthy tissue, or perhaps remove the abnormal tissue by procedures called loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) or conization. In some precancerous cases, treatment may involve hysterectomy (removal of the uterus, including the cervix), particularly if abnormal cells are found inside the opening of the cervix.

Is stage 0 cervical cancer really cancer?

Yes. Some forms of cancer can be referred to as Stage 0, meaning they are noninvasive. Stage 0 cervical cancer refers to cancer that has been found only in the top layer of cells lining the cervix and has not invaded the deeper tissues of the cervix.