CERVICAL CANCER

Symptoms of cervical cancer, including :

1. Abnormal vaginal bleeding

• Bleeding that occurs between regular menstrual periods
• Bleeding after sexual intercourse, douching, or a pelvicexam
• Menstrual periods that last longer and are heavier than before
• Bleeding after menopause

2. Increased vaginal discharge

3. Pelvic pain

4. Pain during sexual intercourse

Diagnosis of cervical cancer include :

Colposcopy

The doctor uses a colposcope to look at the cervix. The colposcope combinesa bright light with a magnifying lens to make tissue easier to see. It is not inserted into the vagina. A colposcopy is usually done in the doctor's office or clinic.

Biopsy

The doctor removes tissue to look for precancerous cells or cancer cells. Most women have their biopsy in the doctor's office with local anesthesia. Apathologist checks the tissue with a microscope.

Punch biopsy

The doctor uses a sharp, hollow device to pinch off small samples of cervical tissue.

LEEP

The doctor uses an electric wire loop to slice off a thin, round piece oftissue.

Endocervical curettage

The doctor uses a curette ( a small, spoon-shaped instrument ) to scrape a small sample of tissue from the cervical canal. Some doctors may use a thin,soft brush instead of a curette.

Conization

The doctor removes a cone-shaped sample of tissue. A conization, or conebiopsy, lets the pathologist see if abnormal cells are in the tissue beneath the surface of the cervix. The doctor may do this test in the hospital undergeneral anesthesia. Conization also may be used to remove a precancerous area.

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