• What is cervical cancer?
• How common is cervical cancer?
• How is cervical cancer detected?
• Can cervical cancer be treated?
• What can I do to decrease my chances of getting cervical cancer?

The primary way to detect cervical cancer is through a Pap test. A Pap test (also known as a Papanicolaou smear), as part of a gynecological exam (checkup), helps detect abnormal cells in the lining of the cervix before they have the chance to become cervical precancer or cervical cancer. The results of a Pap test can help healthcare professionals decide if further testing (for example, a biopsy or HPV DNA test) or treatments are necessary.

Click here to learn how Pap test results are reported.