Initial stages of cervical cancer show no signs or symptoms. Signs and side effects of further developed cervical cancer include:

• Vaginal bleeding after intercourse
• Abnormal Vaginal discharge with foul odor
• Pelvic pain during intercourse

Common tests & procedures

Pap smear: Cells from cervix are taken and examined in a lab for abnormalities.

X-ray: Taken to see if the cancer has spread beyond cervix.

CT scan: CT scan of cervix provides detailed images to identify the severity of cancer.

HPV DNA test: Cells taken from the cervix are checked for HPV infections.

Cone biopsy: Examination of cervix by a magnifying instrument called colposcope.

Punch biopsy: Cervical tissue is scraped by a sharp tool and is examined in a lab.

Endocervical curettage: Utilizes a small, spoon-shaped instrument called curette to scrape a tissue sample from the cervix. The sample is tested for the presence of cancerous cells.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): MRI scan of cervix is performed to identify the extent of cancer spread.