The cervix is the long, narrow end of the uterus (womb) that connects the uterus to the vagina. Cervical cancer is one of the most common malignancies in women worldwide; thanks to screening and vaccination, it is also one of the most preventable cancers. In most cases, cervical cancer is caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV vaccinations and early detection and treatment of abnormal cell changes in the cervix can prevent cervical cancer from developing. To reduce cervical cancer risk, doctors recommend vaccination for adolescents and young adults and regular Pap and HPV tests. For more on HPV, see Basics.

 

American Cancer Society

cancer.org

Combining efforts from the ACS and the American Society of Clinical Psychology, this website offers information about cervical cancer statistics, detection, prevention and treatment. When cervical cancer spreads, it can cause pelvic pain or pain during intercourse. ACS offers pain management resources, including non-opioid treatment plans.

 

Cancer Support Community

cancersupportcommunity.org

CSC is a leader in research on the patient, survivor and caregiver experience, including updated research on cervical cancer, as well as tips on stress, sexual intimacy, pain management and more.

 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

cdc.gov

The CDC’s National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program provides free or low-cost cervical cancer screenings, including Pap and HPV tests, to people who can’t afford them.

 

Cervivor

cervivor.org

A global community of advocates raising awareness about cervical cancer, Cervivor supports patients and survivors, hosts community events and offers educational materials. Its Cervivor School connects survivors to essential knowledge about HPV and cervical cancer, empowering them to become patient advocates themselves.

 

Foundation for Women’s Cancer

foundationforwomenscancer.org

FWC is dedicated to expanding research, education and awareness about gynecologic cancer risk, prevention, early detection and treatment. Its Cervical Cancer Guide offers an overview on cancer symptoms, staging, coping tips and more.

 

National Cancer Institute

cancer.gov

An excellent source of data on cervical cancer, including prevention, treatment and research, the NCI website also features in-depth information on HPV vaccines.

 

National Cervical Cancer Coalition

nccc-online.org

NCCC is dedicated to serving women with or at risk for cervical cancer and HPV-related disease. With thousands of members worldwide and chapters across the United States, NCCC provides free materials about cervical health, information on screening and support for patients and survivors.

 

Resilient Sisterhood Project

rsphealth.org/cervical-cancer

Although Black women are more likely to be screened for cervical cancer, they have higher incidence and mortality rates than their white counterparts, according to RSP. The site offers resources and data about this cancer and other issues involving Black women’s reproductive wellness.

 

SHARE Cancer Support

sharecancersupport.org

SHARE offers a wide range of programming, including cervical cancer support groups, educational programs, webinars and blogs by patients and survivors.