Cervical cancer can be prevented with regular Pap smears and pelvic examinations. The Papanicolaou (Pap) test can detect changes in the cells of the cervix, long before they become cancerous or cause symptoms.

The American Cancer Society recommends that an annual Pap test be performed on women who are, or have been sexually active or are 18 years of age. After three consecutive normal Pap smears, the test may be performed less frequently at the discretion of the physician.

If the Pap test detects abnormal cells, further procedures are necessary to determine what the problem is. These tests may include:

• Colposcopy—an instrument with features similar to a microscope is inserted into the vagina. The doctor is able to inspect the surface of the cervix. A biopsy or sample of cervical tissue may be removed.
• Conization—a cone-shaped wedge of cervical tissue is taken to determine if abnormal cells are below the surface of the cervix. This procedure is done with local or general anesthesia.
• Dilatation and Curettage—a scraping of tissue from the lining of the uterus and cervical canal is taken to determine the exact location of the problem.