 |
|
Source: American Cancer Society.
|
The cervix, the lower part of the uterus or womb, is part of the female reproductive system. It connects the upper part of the uterus where a baby develops to the vagina, or birth canal. During pregnancy the cervix remains tightly closed to hold the baby inside, but dilates, or opens, during childbirth to allow the baby to pass through.
Cancer of the cervix is largely preventable and one of the most successfully treated cancers if found in the early stages. The most significant cause of cervical cancer is human papillomavirus, or HPV infections, which can cause precancerous changes. Regular Pap tests can detect these changes before cancer develops.
