Cervical cancer

Cancer of the cervix is cancer of the cells lining your cervix. At first, abnormal (pre-cancerous) changes occur. These abnormal cells are called cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). These cells are not cancerous, but if left untreated, may develop into cancer.

Cancer is when the abnormal cells in the cervix form a tumour. These cells may then spread to other areas. 

About 250 people are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year in Ireland. 

The cervix is found deep inside your vagina at the lower end of your uterus (womb). It is often called the neck of the uterus as it is the opening to the uterus from the vagina. It is shaped like a cone.

Usually your cervix is closed but it opens during labour to allow for birth.

The cells in your cervix are changing all the time. Most changes happen in an area called the transformation zone. Sometimes abnormal changes happen.

• Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type of cervical cancer. It develops in the thin flat cells called squamous cells, which are found on the surface of your cervix and vagina. 
• Cervical adenocarcinomas are less common. They develop in the gland cells that make mucus in the cervical canal. 
• Adenosquamous carcinomas, mixed carcinomas, clear-cell and small-cell carcinomas are rarer forms of cervical cancer. 

If the cancer returns after treatment, it is called recurrent cervical cancer. Recurrent cervical cancer may be hard to treat again. Even so, some chemotherapy treatments or targeted therapies may help. Your doctor will talk to you about your options. 

Medical content updated from our 'Understanding cervical cancer' booklet (2024). Reviewed by Dr Karen Cadoo, Consultant Cancer Geneticist and Medical Oncologist; Aidin Roberts, Gynaecological Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist; Linda Wilson, Daffodil Centre Nurse.