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Regional Cancer Center: Cancer Screening Information
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Cervical cancer deaths are higher in populations around the world where women do not have access to routine Pap test. These cases are usually diagnosed at an invasive late stage, rather than as precancers or early cancers. Despite the recognized benefits of Pap test screening, not all American women take advantage of it. Between 60% and 80% of American women with newly diagnosed invasive cervical cancer have not had a Pap smear in the past 5 years, and many of these women have never had a Pap test. In particular, elderly, African-American, and low-income women are less likely to have regular Pap tests.
In most cases, being alert to any signs and symptoms of endometrial cancer and discussing them promptly with your health care provider permits diagnosis at an early stage. Unfortunately, some endometrial cancers may reach an advanced stage before recognizable signs and symptoms are present. Early detection improves the chances that your endometrial cancer will be treated successfully.
Screening Tests
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Age |
Frequency |
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Pap Test and Pelvic Exam
This painless examination should be done annually for every woman age 18+ or when a woman becomes sexually active, whichever is earlier. During this exam, the health care professional will use a small brush (swab) to take a few cells from the cervix (the opening to the womb at the top of the vagina). A lab will check the cells for cancer or other problems.
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Any woman who is sexually active or age 18+ |
Annually |
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Endometrial Tissue Sample
To determine if endometrial hyperplasia (altered cell types) or endometrial cancer is present, some of the endometrial tissue must be removed and examined under the microscope. Endometrial tissue can be sampled by endometrial biopsy or by dilation and curettage (D&C) with or without a hysteroscopy (a test in which a gynecologist can view the inside of the uterus through a thin lighted tube).
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At Menopause |
One time for those at risk |
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Transvaginal Sonography
This test uses sound waves to create images of the uterus and ovaries. A probe inserted into the vagina releases sound waves that echo off tissue of the pelvic organs. The pattern of echoes is analyzed by a computer to create images on a computer screen. These images often help determine whether a tumor is present and whether it extends in to the myometrium.
For an ultrahysterosonogram or saline infusion sonogram, saline (saltwater) is introduced into the uterus through a catheter before the transvaginal sonogram is done. This will allow the doctor to see abnormalities of the uterine lining more clearly.
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Ask your provider |
Warning Signs and Symptoms
Cervical Cancer
- It is important to remember that cervical precancers and early cancers usually show no symptoms or signs. A woman usually develops symptoms when the cancer has become invasive (advanced).
- An unusual discharge from the vagina (separate from your normal monthly menstrual period) can be a sign of cervical cancer. Such discharges may include blood spots or light bleeding and may occur in between or following your periods.
- Bleeding following intercourse is a common symptom. Pain during intercourse may also indicate cervical cancer.
However, all of these signs and symptoms can also be caused by conditions other than cervical cancer. For example, an infection can cause pain or bleeding. If you have any of these signs or other suspicious symptoms, it is important that you see your health care provider right away. Ignoring symptoms may allow the cancer to progress to a more advanced stage and lower your chance for effective treatment. Don't wait for symptoms to appear; have a regular Pap test and pelvic examination.
Endometrial Cancer
Unfortunately, some endometrial cancers may reach an advanced stage before recognizable signs and symptoms are present. Early detection improves the chances that endometrial cancer will be treated successfully:
- Unusual bleeding, spotting or other discharge: If you have gone through menopause, it is especially important to report unusual bleeding or spotting to your health care provider. Some 90% of patients diagnosed with endometrial cancer have complained of post-menopausal bleeding or irregular vaginal bleeding. Although this can occur with hyperplasia and some infections, it is important to have immediate medical evaluation of irregular bleeding. Absence of visible blood in a discharge does not mean cancer is absent. In about 10% of cases, the discharge associated with endometrial cancer is white rather than bloods-tinged. Any abnormal discharge should be investigated by your health care provider.
- Pelvic pain and/or mass and weight loss: These symptoms usually occur in later stages of the disease. Nonetheless, delays in seeking medical help may allow the disease to progress even further. This reduces the odds for successful treatment.
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