Scheduled screening procedures can help detect gynecologic cancer, including cervical cancer, uterine cancer, and ovarian cancer, early.
Types of Gynecologic Cancer Screenings
There are three recommended types of gynecologic cancer screenings:
A pap smear can detect cervical and uterine cancers. It is recommended to begin testing every three years starting at age 21.
A pelvic exam examines the vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and rectum. Pelvic exams should be done yearly, beginning at 21 and can help detect abnormalities of the female reproductive system. An endometrial tissue sample checks for abnormal cells or signs of uterine cancer. This test can be done for women with a high risk for endometrial cancer due to an inherited susceptibility or when there are symptoms that need to be evaluated.
