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Cervical cancer

Causes

Open all pages about Cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is cancer that’s found anywhere in the cervix, which is the opening between the vagina and the womb.

The main symptoms of cervical cancer are vaginal bleeding that's unusual for you, pain during sex, changes in vaginal discharge and lower back pain.

The cause of cervical cancer is nearly always an infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV).

Cervical screening and the HPV vaccination are the best way to prevent cervical cancer. Lifestyle changes can also lower your chances of getting it.

Cervical cancer is usually diagnosed using a test called a colposcopy. A microscope with a light at the end is used to look at your cervix.

Your treatment plan for cervical cancer will depend on your situation. It may include surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

If you have cervical cancer, you can get support from your specialist team and charities like Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust and Macmillan Cancer Support.

Page last reviewed: 02/09/2021
Next review due: 02/09/2024