Exams and Tests

Early detection

The Pap test is a routine screening test used to find abnormal cell changes of the cervix and to screen for cervical cancer. Regular Pap test screening is the most important tool in finding and treating cervical cell changes before they progress to cervical cancer.

The recommended Pap test schedule is based on your age and things that increase your risk. For most women, it is best to have a Pap test every 1 to 3 years. Talk to your doctor about when to have your first Pap test and how often to have this test.

Diagnostic tests

If cervical cancer is suspected, your doctor will ask about your medical history and perform a physical exam, including a pelvic exam and a Pap test.

Tests to confirm a diagnosis of cervical cancer include:

• A colposcopy and cervical biopsy. This test can find out whether and where cancer cells are on the surface of the cervix.
• An endocervical biopsy (or curettage). This test is to find out whether cancer cells are in the cervical canal.
• A cone biopsy or loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP). These tests are sometimes recommended to remove cervical tissue for examination under a microscope.

Tests to find out the stage and treatment

Tests to find the extent (stage) of cervical cancer include:

• A cone biopsy or loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP). These tests are sometimes recommended to look for the spread of cancer in cervical tissue.
• A cystoscopy, to look at the interior lining of the bladder and the urethra to see if the cancer has spread to the urinary system.
• A proctoscopy, to look at the lower part of the large intestine (colon) to see if the cancer has spread to the rectum.
• An intravenous pyelogram, to see if there is any blockage of a kidney.

A surgery or procedure may be done to find out the extent of cervical cancer and treat it at the same time. For more information, see Surgery.

Other tests may be done to help guide treatment decisions. For example, you may have:

• Blood tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC) to check for anemia or a chemistry screen to find out how the liver and kidneys are working.
• Imaging tests, such as a chest X-ray, a CT scan, an MRI, or a positron emission tomography (PET). These tests are done to see if the cancer has spread beyond the cervix.