Cervical cancer begins in the cells of the cervix — the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It usually develops from a persistent infection with high-risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection.
What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer develops when abnormal cells in the cervix grow uncontrollably. These changes often begin after long-term HPV infection and may progress to cancer if not detected or treated early.
Overview
Development:
The disease typically starts as precancerous cell changes, known as cervical dysplasia. Regular Pap smears or HPV tests can detect these changes early, preventing cancer from developing.
Stages:
Cervical cancer progresses through five stages:
- Stage 0: Abnormal cells remain on the surface of the cervix.
- Stage I–IV: Cancer grows deeper into tissues and may spread to nearby or distant organs.
Types of Cervical Cancer
Squamous Cell Carcinoma: The most common type, forming in the flat cells lining the cervix.
Adenocarcinoma: Begins in the mucus-producing glands of the cervix. Though less frequent, it’s becoming more common.
Additionally, there are rare types, such as adenosquamous carcinomas (which contain both squamous and glandular cells) and other uncommon forms.
How Common is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally. Thanks to widespread HPV vaccination and regular screening, its rates have dropped significantly in many countries.
Symptoms and Early Warning Signs
Early stages often cause no symptoms. As the disease advances, women may notice:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding (between periods or after sex)
- Abnormal discharge
- Pelvic pain or discomfort during intercourse
- Fatigue or unexplained weight loss
Common Symptoms
Typical signs of cervical cancer are:
- Bleeding after intercourse or between periods
- Vaginal discharge changes
- Pain in the pelvis or during intercourse
Early Signs That Shouldn't Be Ignored
An abnormal Pap test result is often the first indicator of precancerous changes. Routine screenings are vital for early detection.
How Long Can Cervical Cancer Go Undetected?
It develops slowly, often taking 10–20 years to progress from precancerous changes to invasive disease. This slow growth makes regular screening highly effective in preventing advanced cancer.
Causes and Risk Factors
The main cause is persistent infection with high-risk HPV types, especially types 16 and 18.
Other risk factors include:
- Smoking
- Weakened immune system
- Multiple sexual partners
- Early sexual activity
- Long-term use of oral contraceptives
- Family history of cervical cancer
The Role of HPV
HPV is responsible for over 90% of cervical cancer cases. Most HPV infections resolve naturally, but persistent infections can lead to abnormal cell changes that may become cancerous. HPV vaccination greatly reduces this risk.
Other Risk Factors That Increase Susceptibility
Smoking, weakened immunity, and multiple partners all raise the likelihood of developing cervical cancer. Regular HPV testing helps detect risk early.
Diagnosis and Staging
Diagnosis
Cervical Cancer Screening involves:
- Pap smear: Detects abnormal cells
- HPV testing: Identifies high-risk viral strains
- Colposcopy and biopsy: Confirms diagnosis
- Imaging (MRI, CT, ultrasound): Determines extent and spread
Staging
Cervical cancer stages range from:
Stage IV: Distant metastasis (lungs, liver, bones)
Stage 0: Abnormal cells confined to the surface
Stage I: Cancer limited to the cervix
Stage II: Spread to nearby tissues
Stage III: Spread to pelvic wall or lower vagina
Treatment Options for Cervical Cancer
Surgery
Used in early stages to remove cancerous tissue. Options include conization, trachelectomy, or hysterectomy.
Radiation Therapy
High-energy beams destroy cancer cells. Often combined with chemotherapy for better outcomes.
Chemotherapy
Used to shrink tumors or control advanced disease. Often combined with radiation (chemoradiation).
Targeted Therapy & Immunotherapy
Modern treatments that strengthen the immune system or block cancer cell growth pathways, improving survival in advanced cases.
Can Cervical Cancer Be Cured?
When detected early, cervical cancer has very high cure rates. Regular follow-ups are essential to ensure lasting remission.
Prognosis and Survival RatesPrognosis and Survival Rates
- Stage 0: ~100%
- Stage I: ~90%
- Stage II: ~70–80%
- Stage III: Moderate
- Stage IV: Lower, but improving due to new therapies
Factors Influencing Prognosis
- Age and access to medical care
- Stage at diagnosis
- General health
- Cancer subtype
- Treatment response
Prevention and Screening
Cervical cancer prevention depends on HPV vaccination and regular screening.
HPV Vaccination
The HPV vaccine protects against high-risk virus strains that cause cervical cancer.
Screening Guidelines
- Pap smear every 3 years (ages 21–65)
- HPV test every 5 years (after age 30)
Cervical Cancer Treatment in Türkiye
Türkiye has become a leading destination for affordable and advanced cancer care, offering modern facilities and internationally trained specialists.
Why Choose Türkiye?
- Expert oncologists
- State-of-the-art technology
- Cost-effective care packages
Advanced Treatment Options
- Robotic surgery
- IMRT and CyberKnife radiation
- Immunotherapy and targeted therapies
Success Rates of Cervical Cancer Treatment in Türkiye
Liv Hospital offers advanced cervical cancer care with multidisciplinary teams, high-end imaging, and personalized treatment plans.
Success Rates and Liv Hospital Expertise
Liv Hospital provides comprehensive cervical cancer care, supported by multidisciplinary teams and modern medical technologies.
Cutting-Edge Diagnostic and Treatment Technologies
Liv Hospital invests in cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment technologies, including advanced imaging systems, minimally invasive surgical equipment such as robotic surgery platforms, and state-of-the-art radiotherapy devices. These innovations enable precise diagnosis, targeted treatment delivery, and greater patient comfort.
Living with Cervical Cancer
Treatment can cause side effects like fatigue or nausea, but these are manageable with proper medical and emotional support.
Coping and Support
- Nutritional care, rest, and gentle exercise
- Counseling and cancer support groups
- Regular checkups to monitor health
When to Contact Your Doctor
If symptoms worsen or new issues arise during or after treatment, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
*Liv Hospital Editorial Board has contributed to the publication of this content .
* The contents of this page are for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. This page does not contain information about medicinal healthcare services at Liv Hospital.
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