Basic Facts About Cervical Cancer

Where is the cervix?

The picture below shows a woman's reproductive organs.

• The cervix is the lowest part of the uterus. It forms an opening between the uterus and the vagina.
• The uterus, or womb, is where the baby grows when a woman is pregnant.

How does cervical cancer start?

• Sometimes cells in a woman's cervix begin to grow in an abnormal and disorganized way.
• These abnormal cells may not be cancer yet. Without treatment, they can become cancer.
• Most of the abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix do not cause any symptoms in the beginning. That is why it is important to get a Pap test. It will help to see if there are any early changes in the cells.
• A "negative" test result means that no cell changes were found. A "positive" result means that there might be cell changes.
• If there are changes, your doctor will treat them before they turn into cancer cells. With the help of your doctor, you can prevent cervical cancer.

Consuelo: I take care of myself and I feel great. Why do I need a Pap test?

Doctor Vargas: "Although you may feel healthy, the abnormal changes that can end up as cancer can appear without any symptoms. This can happen even when you are feeling great. That is why it is important to get regular Pap tests."