This map explains cervical cancer step by step: what it is, the types, the tests, the stages, the treatment and its side effects.
Tap any topic on the map to read about it. Topics with an arrow open more topics.
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About 80 to 85 out of 100 cervical cancers.
About 10 to 15 out of 100. Starts in the glands of the cervix. Treated in the same way.
Neuroendocrine (small cell) cancer of the cervix is rare and fast growing, and is treated differently, with chemotherapy like small cell lung cancer.
Tap a test on the map to see why it is done.
Please wait for all the reports. Why we wait
A small piece of the cervix is taken to confirm the cancer and its type.
The most important scan. It shows the size of the tumour and whether it has spread beyond the cervix. This decides between surgery and chemoradiotherapy.
Checks the lymph nodes in the pelvis and abdomen, and spread to other organs.
A large tumour can block the tubes from the kidneys. If the kidneys are swollen, a stent or tube may be needed before treatment, especially before cisplatin.
Before starting chemotherapy, immunotherapy or targeted therapy, these tests check that you are fit for treatment, and give a starting point to compare with later.
| Test | Why it is done |
|---|---|
| CBC (complete blood count) | Haemoglobin, white cells and platelets. Treatment can lower them. |
| RFT (kidney function) | Many medicines are cleared by the kidneys; the dose may need to change. |
| LFT (liver function) | Many medicines are processed by the liver. |
| Viral markers: HBsAg, anti-HCV, HIV | Hepatitis B can flare up during treatment. If positive, a tablet is given to prevent this. |
| Blood sugar (and HbA1c if diabetic) | Steroids given with chemotherapy can raise blood sugar. |
| ECG and 2D Echo | Check the heart rhythm and pumping before treatment, as some medicines affect the heart. |
Before immunotherapy, also:
| Test | Why it is done |
|---|---|
| Serum TSH (thyroid) | Immunotherapy can affect the thyroid gland. |
| Serum cortisol (morning sample) | Immunotherapy can affect the adrenal and pituitary glands. |
Sometimes needed, depending on your treatment:
Your doctor will choose the tests that apply to you. Some of them are repeated during treatment.
Cervical cancer is staged using the FIGO system. Tap your stage on the map.
Limited to the cervix. Stage 1A is seen only under the microscope; stage 1B can be seen and is graded by size. The aim is cure.
Spread beyond the cervix to the upper vagina or the tissue beside the womb (parametrium). The aim is cure.
Spread to the lower vagina or pelvic wall, blocking a kidney, or to the lymph nodes (3C). The aim is still cure.
Spread to the bladder or rectum (4A), or to distant organs such as the lungs, liver or bones (4B).
Treatment is planned by the gynae-oncology surgeon, radiation oncologist and medical oncologist. Tap your stage on the map.
Side effects: surgery · radiotherapy
Side effects: chemoradiotherapy · immunotherapy
Side effects: chemotherapy · immunotherapy
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Examination every 3 to 6 months for 2 years, then every 6 to 12 months. MRI or PET-CT if needed.
Heavy vaginal bleeding, no urine for 12 hours, fever of 38°C or more, severe tummy or back pain, or leg swelling need urgent care.
This information is general. Your own treatment plan may be different. Please discuss it with your doctor.
Written and medically reviewed by Dr Prathyusha Eaga, MD, DM (Medical Oncology). Last reviewed: 12 October 2026. Based on NCCN and ESMO guidelines.
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