Prof. Dr. Derya Sivri AydınObstetrician & Gynaecologist
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Cervical cancer

Almost all cervical cancers are linked to long-term infection with high-risk HPV types and usually develop over years from precancerous changes. It is a cancer that can be prevented by regular screening, and treatment success is very high when it is detected early.

Written by Prof. Dr. Derya Sivri Aydın
Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, November 2026

Causes and risk factors

HPV is a very common virus and most infections clear on their own. In a small group in whom the infection lasts more than two years, precancerous changes and, over time, cancer can develop. Smoking and conditions that weaken the immune system increase the risk. Screening is explained in detail on the HPV and colposcopy page.

Symptoms

  • Bleeding between periods or after intercourse
  • Bleeding after the menopause
  • Blood-stained, foul-smelling or increased discharge

There may be no symptoms at an early stage, which is why regular screening without waiting for symptoms is important.

Diagnosis and staging

The diagnosis is made by a biopsy taken during colposcopy or by conization. If cancer is found, its spread is determined by examination and imaging such as MRI and PET-CT. The stage depends on the size of the tumour and whether it has spread to surrounding tissues and lymph nodes, and it guides treatment.

Treatment options

Conization or simple hysterectomy

May be sufficient for the earliest stages.

Radical hysterectomy and lymph node assessment

Removal of the uterus, cervix, upper vagina and the surrounding connective tissue (parametrium); removal of the pelvic lymph nodes or sentinel lymph node mapping. Evidence supports performing radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer by open surgery in most patients.

Fertility-sparing surgery

For patients who wish to have children and have suitable early-stage disease, conization or trachelectomy (removal of the cervix while preserving the uterus) may be chosen.

Chemoradiotherapy

For larger tumours and lymph node involvement, radiotherapy is given together with chemotherapy; it may also be needed after surgery if risk factors are found.

Follow-up after treatment

Check-ups are recommended every 3–4 months for the first two years, every 6 months in years 3–5 and yearly thereafter; a smear test is part of follow-up. Effective supportive treatments are available for vaginal dryness and problems with sexual life related to treatment.

Frequently asked questions

Can I have children after early-stage cervical cancer?

At a suitable early stage and under certain conditions, the uterus can be preserved by conization or trachelectomy. The decision depends on the size of the tumour and the lymph node status; a pregnancy after treatment needs close monitoring.

Should I still have screening if I have had the HPV vaccine?

Yes. The vaccine protects against most, but not all, cancer-causing types; regular screening should continue.

Are the ovaries removed in the treatment of cervical cancer?

Not always. Especially in young patients, preserving the ovaries is considered according to age and the characteristics of the disease.

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Prof. Dr. Derya Sivri Aydın sees patients at Medical Park Bahçelievler Hospital, Istanbul. International patients are supported by the hospital's International Patient Services Center.

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The information on this page is for general guidance only; the right diagnosis and treatment for you are decided after a consultation. Last updated: November 2026.

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