Welcome to the Inova Saville Cancer Screening and Prevention Center
Cervical cancer starts in the lining of the cervix when cells in the body begin to grow out of control. The cervix, which connects the body of the uterus to the birth canal, is made of two parts and is covered with two types of cells:
- The endocervix is the opening of the cervix and is covered with glandular cells.
- The exocervix is the outer part of the cervix and is covered in squamous cells.
Importance of Cervical Cancer Screening
Up to 90% of all cervical cancers are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV spreads through sexual contact (anal, oral or vaginal). Most of us will get HPV at some point in our lives, but most often, our bodies fight off the infection. The HPV vaccine can help prevent HPV infection by protecting you against HPV. Cervical cancer symptoms are often not noticeable until the cancer becomes larger and grows into nearby tissue. When this happens, the most common symptoms are:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Heavier or longer-than-usual periods
- Unusual discharge from the vagina
- Problems urinating or having a bowel movement
- Pain in the pelvic area
- Pain during sex
- Swelling in the legs
- Blood in the urine
Screening: What to Expect
Cervical cancer is the only type of gynecologic cancer for which screening can be performed. Finding cervical cancer often starts with an abnormal Pap test or HPV test result. These screenings may lead to your provider recommending further testing, which can diagnose cervical cancer or a pre-cancerous condition. The tests used include colposcopy (with biopsy), endocervical scraping and cone biopsies.