Clinical trials play an important role in improving cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment. For some patients, taking part may offer access to new therapies that are not yet widely available. Your care team can help determine whether a clinical trial may be an option and explain what participation involves.
What is Cervical Cancer ?
Cervical cancer is a kind of gynecologic cancer that develops when cells in the cervix begin to grow and divide abnormally, sometimes forming tumors.
Most cases of cervical cancer are linked to long-term infection with certain types of HPV, a common virus. It is more often diagnosed in adults over age 35, but it can affect younger people as well.
If you or a loved one has concerns about cervical cancer, LifeBridge Health’s cancer specialists are here for the whole experience—supporting your body, well-being and peace of mind as you move through diagnosis and treatment.
Cervical Cancer Symptoms
Some people with cervical cancer do not notice symptoms early on. When symptoms do gradually appear, they may include:
- Longer or heavier menstrual periods
- Vaginal bleeding between periods
- Vaginal bleeding after menopause
- Bleeding or discomfort during and after sex
- Unusual or persistent vaginal discharge
- Pelvic pain
How Cervical Cancer is Diagnosed
Cervical cancer is often found through routine screening before symptoms develop. If screening results are abnormal or symptoms raise concern, additional tests are used to confirm a diagnosis and plan care.
Screening Tests
Regular screening helps detect changes in cervical cells before cancer develops.
- Pap test: Checks for abnormal cells on the cervix
- HPV test: Looks for high-risk HPV types linked to cervical cancer
Diagnostic Tests
If screening results are abnormal, further testing may be recommended.
- Colposcopy: A close examination of the cervix using a special magnifying device
- Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken to confirm whether cancer is present
Imaging Tests
Ultrasound, CT or MRI scans may be used to determine the size of the cancer and whether it has spread beyond the cervix.
Cervical Cancer Treatment Options
Treatment decisions for cervical cancer are guided by the stage of the disease and your personal health needs. At LifeBridge Health, a team of specialists helps you understand your options and what to expect from each one.
Surgery
Surgery removes cancerous tissue. Depending on the stage, this may involve removing only the affected area or, in some cases, the uterus and nearby tissue.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. It may be used alone or combined with chemotherapy.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medication to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. It is often paired with radiation for certain stages.
Immunotherapy
Some cervical cancers respond to medication that helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy focuses on specific parts of cancer cells that help them grow. This approach helps limit damage to healthy tissue.
Clinical Trials
Supportive Services
When you receive cancer care at LifeBridge Health, you have access to supportive services like counseling, integrative therapies and support groups. These resources are designed to help patients care for their physical and emotional well‑being throughout treatment and beyond.