- The doctor performs a pelvic
exam, checking the vagina, uterus, ovaries, bladder, and
rectum. The doctor feels these organs for any lumps or changes in
their shape or size. An instrument called a speculum is used to
widen the vagina so the doctor can see the upper portion of the
vagina and the cervix.
- The Pap test is often
performed during a pelvic exam. The doctor uses a wooden scraper
(spatula) or small brush to collect a sample of cells from the
cervix and upper vagina. The cells are then sent to a medical
laboratory to be checked for abnormal changes. Because uterine
cancer begins inside the uterus, it may not show up on a Pap test,
which examines cells from the cervix.
- A biopsy is necessary to help the doctor make a diagnosis. A biopsy can usually be done in the doctor's office. In a biopsy, the doctor removes a sample of tissue from the uterine lining. In some cases, a woman may require a dilation and curettage (D&C), which is usually same-day surgery done in a hospital with anesthesia. During a D&C, the opening of the cervix is widened and the doctor scrapes tissue from the lining of the uterus. A pathologist examines the tissue to check for cancer cells, hyperplasia, or other conditions. After a D&C, women may have cramps and vaginal bleeding during healing.
A woman who needs a biopsy may want to ask the doctor some of the following questions:
- What type of biopsy will I have? Why?
- How long will it take? Will I be awake? Will it hurt?
- How soon will I know the results?
- If I do have cancer, who will talk with me about treatment? When?
More About Uterine Cancer
