How can I help detect cervical cancer early?
As with other
cancers, the sooner cervical cancer is found and treated, the
better the chance for recovery. Death from cervical cancer is
nearly 100% preventable with routine screening. You should have a
yearly pelvic exam and Pap test by your nurse practitioner,
gynecologist, internist, or family practice physician. The Pap test
is a simple procedure done by a healthcare professional as part of
your pelvic exam. A small sample of cells is collected from the
cervix, transferred to a slide, and examined under a
microscope.
Screening should begin within 3 years after a woman begins
sexual intercourse, or by age 21. New ACS guidelines suggest that
it may be safe for some women to have Pap tests less than annually.
You should discuss this with your doctor. If you have had a total
hysterectomy(including the cervix) you do not need to have a
Pap test.
If you are felt to be at high risk, your doctor may perform
screening exams more often. If you are in need of these services,
please call (913) 588-1227 to make an appointment.
What are the symptoms of cervical cancer?
Precancer or early cervical cancer often shows no signs or
symptoms. When cervical cancer cells grow and invade surrounding
tissue, they may cause abnormal bleeding. Bleeding may start and
stop between regular menstrual periods, or it may occur after
sexual intercourse, douching, or a pelvic exam. Menstrual bleeding
may last longer and be heavier than usual. Bleeding after menopause
also may be a symptom of cervical cancer. Increased vaginal
discharge is another symptom of cervical cancer.
These symptoms may be caused by cervical cancer, or by other,
less serious conditions. It is important to check with your doctor
about any of these symptoms. If you are concerned about any of
these symptoms, call The University of Kansas Hospital at (913)
588-1227 or (800) 332-6048 for an appointment.
How will I be screened/diagnosed for cervical cancer?
The pelvic exam and Pap test allow the doctor to detect abnormal
changes in the cervix. If these exams show that there are abnormal
changes, the Pap test may be repeated.
Colposcopyis a method used to check the cervix for abnormal
areas. This method uses a vinegar-like solution to coat the cervix;
the cervix is then viewed using a colposcope. Malignant cells
appear a different color than normal cells.
The doctor may remove a small piece of tissue (biopsy) for an
examination by the pathologist. These procedures are usually
performed in the out-patient setting.
The doctor may also want to check inside the opening of the
cervix, an area that cannot be seen during colposcopy. In this
procedure, the doctor uses a curette ( a small, spoon-shaped
instrument) to scrape tissue from inside the cervical opening.
When you arrive at The University of Kansas Hospital Center for
your first visit, a full medical history will be taken. You will
receive an examination including a pelvic exam, and possibly
diagnostic tests. State-of-the-art diagnostic services are
available at The University of Kansas Hospital.
If your tests are available the same day, they will be discussed
with you and, if necessary, further tests may be scheduled. If your
test results are not available the same day, an additional
appointment will be made. Your care will be centralized so that you
can receive services in one place, as allowed by your insurance
carrier.