what is the normal course of treatment for cervical cancer

Medication

• For surgery to remove precancerous growths, a portion of the cervix is generally enough. ...
• For more locally advanced cervical tumors where surgery can not achieve cure alone, radiation therapy is preferred. ...
• Chemotherapy is a cancer-fighting medication that not only sensitizes the cervical cancer cells to radiation and makes radiation work better. ...

Procedures

Cervical cancer is treated in several ways. It depends on the kind of cervical cancer and how far it has spread. Treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Page last reviewed: December 14, 2021. Content source: Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Therapy

To reduce your risk of cervical cancer:

• Ask your doctor about the HPV vaccine. Receiving a vaccination to prevent HPV infection may reduce your risk of cervical cancer and other HPV -related cancers. ...
• Have routine Pap tests. Pap tests can detect precancerous conditions of the cervix, so they can be monitored or treated in order to prevent cervical cancer. ...
• Practice safe sex. ...
• Don't smoke. ...

Nutrition

VB10.16 is a potentially first-in-class off-the-shelf therapeutic HPV16 cancer vaccine designed to induce strong HPV16 specific T cell responses for the treatment of HPV16-positive cancers.

What is the best treatment for cervical cancer?

What is cervical cancer and how is it treated?

How I cured my cervical cancer?

How to cure cervical cancer?

What is the course of treatment for cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. If your doctor says that you have cervical cancer, ask to be referred to a gynecologic oncologist—a doctor who has been trained to treat cancers of a woman's reproductive system. This doctor will work with you to create a treatment plan.

How long does treatment for cervical cancer last?

Your treatments might be external, internal, or both. External radiation comes from a large machine that aims a beam of radiation at your pelvis. You'll probably get treatments, which take only a few minutes, 5 days a week for 5 to 6 weeks.

Do you need chemo for Stage 1 cervical cancer?

Stage 1 cervical cancer is usually treated with: surgery. combined chemotherapy and radiotherapy (chemoradiotherapy)

What is the next step after being diagnosed with cervical cancer?

If you've been diagnosed with cervical cancer, your doctor will talk to you about cervical cancer treatment options. Depending on the cervical cancer stage and your plans for pregnancy, your treatment plan might include: Surgery to remove a part of your cervix, all of your cervix, or all of your reproductive organs.

Is cervical cancer easily treatable?

Cervical cancer is often treatable. The treatment you have will depend on: the size and type of cervical cancer you have.

How long is chemo for cervical cancer?

Chemo is given in cycles, followed by a rest period to give you time to recover from the effects of the drugs. Cycles are most often weekly or 3 weeks long. The schedule varies depending on the drugs used. For example, with some drugs, the chemo is given only on the first day of the cycle.

What foods should you avoid if you have cervical cancer?

Up to 99.7% of cervical cancer cases result from infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV)....Thus, foods to limit or avoid include:foods high in added sugar.processed meats such as deli meat.red meats.foods high in saturated and trans fats.

How many radiation sessions are needed for cervical cancer?

During treatment You will probably have 3–4 sessions over 2–4 weeks. You will be given a general or spinal anaesthetic at each brachytherapy session. Applicators are used to deliver the radiation source to the cancer.

How long does it take for cervical cancer to go from Stage 1 to Stage 4?

Cervical cancer develops very slowly. It can take years or even decades for the abnormal changes in the cervix to become invasive cancer cells. Cervical cancer might develop faster in people with weaker immune systems, but it will still likely take at least 5 years.

Can you live a normal life after cervical cancer?

This is very common if you've had cancer. For other women, the cancer may never go away completely. These women may get regular treatments with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or other therapies to try to control the cancer for as long as possible.

What happens after treatment for cervical cancer?

Most women feel fine after having treatment for abnormal cervical cells but some may feel unwell and need to go home and rest. You can go home the same day you have treatment, unless you've had a hysterectomy or a cone biopsy. But you shouldn't plan to do anything else that day.

What are the symptoms of Stage 1 cervical cancer?

Signs and symptoms of stage 1 cervical cancer can include:Watery or bloody vaginal discharge that may be heavy and can have a foul odor.Vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between menstrual periods or after menopause.Menstrual periods may be heavier and last longer than normal.

How long does it take to recover from cervical cancer?

Survival for all stages of cervical cancer more than 80 out of every 100 (more than 80%) will survive their cancer for 1 year or more after they are diagnosed. more than 60 out of every 100 (more than 60%) will survive their cancer for 5 years or more after diagnosis.

Does cervical cancer come back after treatment?

Approximately a third of women treated for cervical cancer will have recurrence during follow-up (11), with most relapses occurring in the first two to three years after treatment (7, 12).

What happens after treatment for cervical cancer?

Most women feel fine after having treatment for abnormal cervical cells but some may feel unwell and need to go home and rest. You can go home the same day you have treatment, unless you've had a hysterectomy or a cone biopsy. But you shouldn't plan to do anything else that day.

What are the chances of surviving cervical cancer?

The 5-year survival rate for all people with cervical cancer is 66%. However, survival rates can vary by factors such as race, ethnicity, and age. For White women, the 5-year survival rate is 71%. For Black women, the 5-year survival rate is 58%.

What tests are done to determine if you have cervical cancer?

Your cancer's stage is a key factor in deciding on your treatment. Staging exams include: Imaging tests.

What is the test for cervical cancer?

A Pap test can detect abnormal cells in the cervix, including cancer cells and cells that show changes that increase the risk of cervical cancer. HPV DNA test.

What is palliative care?

Palliative care is specialized medical care that focuses on providing relief from pain and other symptoms of a serious illness. Palliative care specialists work with you, your family and your other doctors to provide an extra layer of support that complements your ongoing care.

What tests can be done to check if you have cancer?

Tests such as X-ray, CT, MRI and positron emission tomography (PET) help your doctor determine whether your cancer has spread beyond your cervix. Visual examination of your bladder and rectum. Your doctor may use special scopes to see inside your bladder and rectum.

Can you remove cancer from a small cervix?

Surgery to cut away the cancer only. For a very small cervical cancer, it might be possible to remove the cancer entirely with a cone biopsy. This procedure involves cutting away a cone-shaped piece of cervical tissue, but leaving the rest of the cervix intact.

Can you use chemotherapy for cervical cancer?

Sometimes both methods are used. For locally advanced cervical cancer, low doses of chemotherapy are often combined with radiation therapy, since chemotherapy may enhance the effects of the radiation . Higher doses of chemotherapy might be recommended to help control symptoms of very advanced cancer.

Can you be prepared for cancer?

No one can be prepared for a cancer diagnosis. You can, however, try to manage the shock and fear you're feeling by taking steps to control what you can about your situation.

What are the treatments for cervical cancer?

Common types of treatments for cervical cancer include: Surgery for Cervical Cancer. Radiation Therapy for Cervical Cancer. Chemotherapy for Cervical Cancer. Targeted Therapy for Cervical Cancer. Immunotherapy for Cervical Cancer.

What do people with cancer need?

People with cancer need support and information, no matter what stage of illness they may be in. Knowing all of your options and finding the resources you need will help you make informed decisions about your care.

What are the best doctors for cancer?

Doctors on your cancer treatment team may include: 1 A gynecologist: a doctor who treats diseases of the female reproductive system 2 A gynecologic oncologist: a doctor who specializes in cancers of the female reproductive system who can perform surgery and prescribe chemotherapy and other medicines 3 A radiation oncologist: a doctor who uses radiation to treat cancer 4 A medical oncologist: a doctor who uses chemotherapy and other medicines to treat cancer

What is complementary medicine?

Complementary methods refer to treatments that are used along with your regular medical care. Alternative treatments are used instead of a doctor’s medical treatment.

What kind of doctor treats cancer?

Doctors on your cancer treatment team may include: A gynecologist: a doctor who treats diseases of the female reproductive system. A gynecologic on cologist: a doctor who specializes in cancers of the female reproductive system who can perform surgery and prescribe chemotherapy and other medicines. A radiation on cologist: a doctor who uses radiation ...

What are the services offered by the American Cancer Society?

These might include nursing or social work services, financial aid, nutritional advice, rehab, or spiritual help. The American Cancer Society also has programs and services – including rides to treatment, lodging, and more – to help you get through treatment.

Who are the specialists involved in cancer care?

Many other specialists may be involved in your care as well, including nurse practitioners, nurses, psychologists, social workers, rehabilitation specialists, and other health professionals. Health Professionals Associated with Cancer Care.

How to treat cervical cancer during pregnancy?

Treatment of cervical cancer during pregnancy depends on the stage of the cancer and how long the patient has been pregnant. A biopsy and imaging tests may be done to determine the stage of the disease. To avoid exposing the fetus to radiation, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is used.

Where does cervical cancer form?

Cervical cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the cervix. The cervix is the lower, narrow end of the uterus (the hollow, pear-shaped organ where a fetus grows). The cervix leads from the uterus to the vagina (birth canal). Anatomy of the female reproductive system.

How big is stage 2 cervical cancer?

Stage II cervical cancer. In stages IIA1 and IIA2, cancer has spread from the cervix to the upper two-thirds of the vagina but has not spread to the tissue around the uterus. In stage IIA1, the cancer is 4 centimeters or smaller. In stage IIA2, the cancer is larger than 4 centimeters.

What is the purpose of DNA and RNA in a cervical Pap test?

Cells are collected from the cervix and DNA or RNA from the cells is checked to find out if an infection is caused by a type of HPV that is linked to cervical cancer. This test may be done using the sample of cells removed during a Pap test.

What is the risk factor for cervical cancer?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the major risk factor for cervical cancer. Anything that increases your chance of getting a disease is called a risk factor. Having a risk factor does not mean that you will get cancer; not having risk factors doesn't mean that you will not get cancer.

What is the procedure to remove abnormal cells from a Pap test?

Biopsy: If abnormal cells are found in a Pap test, the doctor may do a biopsy. A sample of tissue is cut from the cervix and viewed under a microscope by a pathologist to check for signs of cancer. A biopsy that removes only a small amount of tissue is usually done in the doctor’s office.

How deep is stage IA1 cancer?

A very small amount of cancer that can only be seen under a microscope is found in the tissues of the cervix. In stage IA1, the cancer is not more than 3 millimeters deep. In stage IA2, the cancer is more than 3 but not more than 5 millimeters deep.

What is the treatment for cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. If your doctor says that you have cervical cancer, ask to be referred to a gynecologic oncologist —a doctor who has been trained to treat cancers of a woman’s reproductive system.

What is the difference between a gynecologic oncologist and a radiation oncologist

Different treatments may be provided by different doctors on your medical team. Gynecologic oncologists are doctors who have been trained to treat cancers of a woman’s reproductive system. Surgeons are doctors who perform operations. Medical oncologists are doctors who treat cancer with medicine. Radi ation oncologists are doctors who treat cancer ...

What is the treatment for a swollen vein?

Surgery: Doctors remove cancer tissue in an operation. Chemotherapy: Using special medicines to shrink or kill the cancer. The drugs can be pills you take or medicines given in your veins, or sometimes both.

What is the purpose of information about cancer?

Doctors use this information to plan treatment and to monitor progress.

What is the treatment for cervical cancer?

If you have been diagnosed with cervical cancer, your treatment plan may include one or more of the following approaches: Surgery to remove cancerous growths, a portion of the cervix, the entire uterus or additional organs and tissues.

Where does cervical cancer occur?

This disease occurs in the cervix, or the passageway that joins the lower section of the uterus to the vagina. Like most other cancers, early detection is key to achieving a positive outcome and enhanced quality of life. Receiving an annual Pap smear can detect cervical cancer in its initial stages when it is often highly treatable.

What is the best treatment for cancer?

Radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells or prevent their growth using high-energy X-rays. Chemotherapy to deliver cancer-fighting medication throughout the body or in a specific region. In general, surgery may be recommended if the physician believes the tumor can be successfully removed.

Can a Pap smear detect cervical cancer?

Receiving an annual Pap smear can detect cer vical cancer in its initial stages when it is often highly treatable. If it has been more than a year since your last Pap smear, be sure to speak with your gynecologist about scheduling an exam.

What is the treatment for stage IV cervical cancer?

Chemotherapy with radiation is generally used to treat stage II, stage III, and stage IV cervical cancer. After chemotherapy and radiation are complete, your healthcare provider may also suggest a hysterectomy.

What are the stages of cervical cancer?

Stage I: The cancer is only in the cervix or uterus. Stage II: The cancer has spread past the cervix and the uterus. Stage III: The cervical cancer has spread further – possibly into the lower vagina and the pelvic wall. It may be blocking tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder.

What is the procedure to remove a tumor?

Surgery may be removal of the tumor, a hysterectomy, a radical hysterectomy, or a radical vaginal trachelectomy (RVT). They type of surgery will depend on the stage of the cancer and if you want to become pregnant in the future. A hysterectomy involves removal of the uterus and cervix.

What are the sub-stages of stage 1 cancer?

For example, the sub-stages of Stage I cancer are IA1, IA2, IB1, and IB2. There are also different types of cervical cancers. The two main types are squamous cell carcinoma, which is common, and adenocarcinoma. A small percentage of cancers are adenosquamous carcinomas and an even smaller percentage are small cell and large cell neuroendocrine ...

How long does it take to live with stage IA cervical cancer?

Just to give you an idea of survival statistics, women who are diagnosed with stage IA cervical cancer have a five-year survival rate of 95%. Five-year survival rates look at people who were treated at least 5 years ago and refer to the percentage of women who lived at least 5 years after their cancer was diagnosed.

Can cervical cancer be delayed?

If you’re pregnant. For cervical cancer found in its early stages, or for cancer diagnosed during the last trimester of pregnancy, treatment may be delayed until after the baby is born. If you want to have children in the future.

Surgery

Surgery is the main treatment for cervical cancers. Sometimes you'll get chemotherapy or radiation to shrink the tumor before surgery, or to kill cancer cells that remain afterward. The type of surgery you have depends on how large the cancer has grown and whether it has spread.

Radiation

Radiation uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells and stop their growth. You might get radiation before or after surgery, or if your cancer has spread beyond your cervix.

Chemotherapy

In “chemo,” drugs are used to kill or slow the growth of cervical cancer cells. You'll usually get chemo through an IV.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy uses drugs that kill cancer cells but spare healthy cells. For example, bevacizumab ( Avastin) is a drug that stops new blood vessels from forming. This can slow down tumor growth in advanced cervical cancer, because tumors need new blood vessels for nourishment. Doctors often use targeted therapy with chemotherapy.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is the use of medicines to stimulate a person’s own immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells more effectively. Immunotherapy can be used to treat cervical cancer that has spread or come back (recurred).

Clinical Trials

If you've tried a few treatments and they didn't work, or the cancer has spread, ask your doctor about a clinical trial. These test new treatments to see if they’re safe and if they work. They’re often ways for people to try new medicines or therapies that aren’t available to everyone.

How Can I Feel Better During Cervical Cancer Treatment?

You’re probably so focused on getting well, you hardly have time to think about how to ease the side effects from your treatments like hair loss or changes in your appetite. But there are things you can do that can help you feel better.

What is standard of care for cervical cancer?

This section explains the types of treatments that are the standard of care for cervical cancer. “Standard of care” means the best treatments known. Clinical trials may also be an option for you, which is something you can discuss with your doctor.

How to give a systemic treatment for cervical cancer?

Common ways to give systemic therapies include an intravenous (IV) tube placed into a vein using a needle or in a pill or capsule that is swallowed (orally). The types of systemic therapies used for cervical cancer include: Chemotherapy. Targeted therapy.

What is the procedure to remove the uterus after hysterectomy?

This procedure has become an acceptable alternative to a hysterectomy for some patients. Exenteration. The removal of the uterus, vagina, lower colon, rectum, or bladder if cervical cancer has spread to these organs after radiation therapy (see below). Exenteration is rarely recommended.

What is the procedure for removing a tumor?

For cervical cancer that has not spread beyond the cervix, these procedures are often used: Conization.

What is the goal of radiation therapy combined with chemotherapy?

The goal of radiation therapy combined with chemotherapy is to increase the effectiveness of the radiation treatment. This combination is given to control the cancer in the pelvis with the goal of curing the cancer without surgery. It may also be given to destroy microscopic cancer that might remain after surgery.

What is targeted therapy?

Targeted therapy is a treatment that targets the cancer’s specific genes, proteins, or the tissue environment that contributes to cancer growth and survival. This type of treatment blocks the growth and spread of cancer cells and limits damage to healthy cells.#N#Not all tumors have the same targets. To find the most effective treatment, your doctor may run tests to identify the genes, proteins, and other factors in your tumor. This helps doctors better match each patient with the most effective treatment whenever possible. In addition, research studies continue to find out more about specific molecular targets and new treatments directed at them. Learn more about the basics of targeted treatments.

What is the treatment for cancer?

Radiation therapy . Radiation therapy is the use of high-energy x-rays or other particles to destroy cancer cells. A doctor who specializes in giving radiation therapy to treat cancer is called a radiation oncologist. Radiation therapy may be given alone, before surgery, or instead of surgery to shrink the tumor.

Diagnosis

Treatment

Clinical Trials

Coping and Support

Preparing For Your Appointment