Cervical Cancer
You deserve to feel supported throughout your cancer journey.
From the moment you receive a cervical cancer diagnosis, the multi-disciplinary team at Novant Health Cancer Institute will surround you with experts in surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy and integrative oncology. Our highly specialized gynecological cancer experts are skilled at performing complex surgeries and delivering the latest treatments for cervical cancer. You’ll receive a personalized treatment plan tailored to meet your health and personal needs.
Understanding cervical cancer
Cervical cancer affects the cells of the cervix, located in the lower portion of the uterus. The experienced gynecologic oncology team at Novant Health Cancer Institute treats all stages of cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is typically found from a PAP test or the HPV test. Almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV (human papillomavirus) and are most frequently diagnosed in women aged 35 to 44.
What are cervical cancer symptoms?
The most common symptoms for cervical cancer are bleeding, watery discharge, and pelvic pain. Pap screenings and HPV vaccines are critical in preventing cervical cancer. The two main types of cervical cancer are squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Almost 90% of all cervical cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, which involve the outer surface of the cervix. Adenocarcinomas are found in the cervical canal glands.
How is cervical cancer diagnosed?
A diagnosis of cervical cancer is usually made following an abnormal pap smear or during an exam for abnormal bleeding or discharge. Following a diagnosis, you may need other imaging tests like a CT, MRI, or PET scan. These tests help determine the stage of the disease so our team can develop the best treatment plan for you.
How is cervical cancer treated?
The appropriate treatment for you depends on the stage of disease and factors such as your desire for fertility. Treatments for cervical cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. In addition to chemotherapy, we may use targeted therapies and immunotherapies.
Our gynecologic oncologists are experienced in these medical treatments and work closely with radiation oncologists to improve your chance for the best outcome possible. Our symptom care team will create a plan to reduce side effects like nausea and weakness, so you can focus on recovery.
Cervical Cancer Treatments
Who treats Cervical cancer?
Gynecologic oncologists
Your care team will be led by a gynecologic oncologist, a highly specialized expert in cancers of the female reproductive system. Your gynecologic oncologist can diagnose and manage your overall treatment including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy.
A gynecologic oncologist is also a board-certified surgeon, skilled at performing complex surgeries using the latest technology-assisted surgical equipment. As one of the top performers of gynecological surgery in the state, the surgeons at Novant Health Cancer Institute use minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, so you can heal more quickly.
Radiation oncologists
Radiation may be recommended as the primary treatment for your cervical cancer along with chemotherapy. As part of your collaborative cancer team, your radiation oncologist prescribes, oversees, and performs any radiation therapies you may require.
Other specialists
Treating cervical cancer goes beyond removing cancerous tumors. Depending on the nature of your cancer, you'll have many specialists on your side. These could include a fertility and reproductive health specialist, nurse navigator, physical therapist, dietitian, and counselors to help with the emotional highs and lows of cancer treatment.
Why Choose Novant Health?
Accredited by multiple national organizations, including the Commission on Cancer and the Quality Oncology Practice Initiative (QOPI®), your Novant Health physician is committed to providing excellence in cancer care. You can feel confident that you will be supported throughout your cancer journey by a specialized team of experts focused on your specific needs. We work in state-of-the-art cancer care centers that are among the best in the country.
Your cancer journey is unique. That’s why our nationally recognized cancer teams work with you to develop a personalized care plan. At Novant Health, you’ll have access to the most current treatment options available only at leading cancer institutes. Your treatment may include clinical research trials or robotics, microsurgeries, new radiation technologies, or cellular and immune therapies. Together, we can treat your cancer, manage your symptoms, and provide you with support at all stages.
You're not alone on your cancer journey. At Novant Health, rest assured you’ll have all the resources you need to tackle your life-changing diagnosis. Our multidisciplinary, collaborative approach brings together experts with knowledge from different specialties to support you every step of the way. In addition to oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons, your team may include nurse navigators, nutritionists, integrative medicine specialists, genetic counselors, social workers, symptom management and palliative care specialists, and more.
Experience the Future of Cancer Care, Today.
Together, we can beat cancer. Clinical research studies drive breakthroughs in the prevention, detection and treatment of many cancer conditions.
If eligible to join a clinical trial, you could access new cancer treatments before they’re available to the general public. Explore clinical trials and speak with your cancer team to see if any are right for you.
Search for Clinical Trials at Novant Health
You’re Entitled to a Second Opinion.
Are you concerned or confused about a cancer diagnosis or treatment recommendation you've received?
Another perspective on your case and options can give you some peace of mind. Reach out for a virtual session or in-person consultation.