Cervical Cancer

Cervical Cancer starts in the cervix. The cervix is the narrow, lowest portion of a women’s uterus (womb). The cervix connects the main body of the uterus to the vagina and is part of the female reproductive system. Early detection means finding a Cancer or precancerous condition at an early stage. In most cases, finding Cancer early increases the chances of successful treatment. Screening for Cervical Cancer is done by a Pap test or HPV test. Currently, screening for Cervical Cancer with the Pap test is recommended in Canada for women once they become sexually active or are between the ages of 18 and 69 or older depending on their province.

About this Cancer

Statistics

According to the Canadian Cancer Statistics in 2025, 1650 Canadians will be diagnosed with cervical cancer and 430 people will pass away. 

Source: Canadian Cancer Statistics 2025

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of cervical cancer may include: 

  • Irregular vaginal bleeding, between periods, following menopause and after sexual intercouse
  • Irregular or increased quantity of vaginal discharge
  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
  • Abnormally long or heavy periods
  • Bleeding following a pelvic exam or vaginal douching
  • Decreased appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Tiredness 

For more information, visit the Canadian Cancer Society.

Risk Factors

Cervical cancer risk factors can include

  • Human papillomavirus (HPV)
  • Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
  • Smoking
  • Use of oral contraceptives
  • Giving birth multiple times
  • Sexual activity 
  • Previous history of sexually transmitted infections 
  • Diethylstilbestrol (DES)

For more information visit the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS)

Diagnosis

Cervical cancer can be diagnosed through:

  • Pap test (used in screening)
  • HPV DNA test (used in screening)
  • Colposcopy
  • Biopsy, including: punch biopsy, endocervical curettage or an electrical wire loop or cone biopsy, if more tests are required
  • Imaging tests: X-ray, PET Scan, CT Scan, or MRI 
  • Visual analysis of your bladder and rectum

For more information, visit the Mayo Clinic.

Treatment

Treatments include:

  • Surgery 
  • Radiation therapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Targeted therapy
  • Immunotherapy 
  • Palliative care

For more information, please visit the Mayo Clinic.

Stories from Survivors

Stories from Other Groups

We currently do not have any stories on cervical cancer. If you know of any, please share them with us at info@survivornet.ca.

Resources

Cervical Cancer Groups

Canada

The Canadian Foundation for Women’s Health is Canada’s leading national foundation for women’s sexual and reproductive health. With the support of individuals, medical organizations and companies, we fund research and initiatives to improve the health of Canadian women at every stage of their lives. We champion funding for women’s health research nationally and foster support for international women’s health programs. Research and activities supported by the Canadian Foundation for Women’s Health aim to enhance and advance sexual and reproductive health for Canadian women. For more information visit: Canadian Foundation for Women’s Health