Cervical cancer is a disease where malignant or cancerous cells form in the tissues of the cervix, which connects the uterus and the vagina. Cervical cancer normally grows slowly and, while there are usually no noticeable signs of early cervical cancer, it can be detected with regular Pap tests and pelvic exams. The most common cause of cervical cancer is through infection of the cervix with human papillomavirus (HPV).
Several types of cervical cancer treatment are available to patients. Surgical options include:
Other options for cervical cancer treatment may include:
- radiation therapy to kill cancer cells or prevent them from growing
- chemotherapy drugs, which may be used to kill cancer cells or to stop them from dividing and growing
- new forms of cervical cancer treatment, which are continually in development and may be available to patients through clinical trials
Women looking for gynecological or cervical cancer treatment can find comprehensive services and support at The Susan F. Smith Center for Women's Cancers Gynecologic Oncology Program, a division of the Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center.
Learn more about cervical cancer treatment at the Cancer Center.
Cervical cancer treatment at Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center
The Susan F. Smith Center for Women's Cancers Gynecologic Oncology Program at Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center provides expert and compassionate treatment for women who have been diagnosed with gynecological cancer or who are a risk of developing it. The Center's team includes specialists from many disciplines that can help patients and families cope with the physical and emotional effects of diagnosis and cancer treatment. The treatment team excels in providing supportive care at each stage of the journey, from diagnosis through treatment and follow-up.
Patients who come to the Center for cervical cancer treatment will work closely with doctors and other caregivers to develop an individualized treatment plan. Patients may also receive nutritional counseling, emotional and spiritual support, financial advice and complementary therapies such as acupuncture and massage.
In addition to therapy for cervical cancer, patients come to the Center for endometrial cancer treatment, ovarian cancer treatment, and treatment of other forms of gynecological cancer.
The Susan F. Smith Center for Women's Cancers Breast Oncology Program also provides expert treatment for patients with breast cancer, including surgeries such as mastectomy and other treatments.
Research in treatment for cervical and other cancers
As one of the world's major cancer research institutions, the Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center is helping to advance research in gynecological cancers. Researchers at the Center are helping to make discoveries about the genes that cause tumors to develop and grow, to develop advanced new therapies and to improve their understanding of ways to prevent cancerous cells from forming.
Learn more about Cervical Cancer Treatment at Brigham and Women's Hospital.
