Why Choose Us for Cervical Cancer Care
At Huntsman Cancer Institute, our Gynecologic Cancers Program provides expert, multidisciplinary care for cervical cancer. You are supported by a team of experts, including gynecologic oncologists, medical and radiation oncologists, surgeons, pathologists, radiologists, and supportive care specialists—all focused exclusively on cancers of the female reproductive system.
“My doctor is extremely knowledgeable, highly professional, and very compassionate. You can rest assured you will be under the best of care."
—Cervical Cancer Patient
Treatments We Offer
Treatment depends on your cancer stage, location, and overall health:
- Surgery: For early-stage cancer, this may involve removal of the cervix and uterus. Fertility-preserving procedures may be considered when appropriate.
- Radiation therapy: External beam radiation or internal radiation (brachytherapy), often combined with chemotherapy, especially for more advanced or locally invasive cancers.
- Chemotherapy: Often administered along with radiation (chemoradiation) for more extensive disease or to reduce the risk of spread.
- Targeted therapy/biologic therapy/systemic therapy: When indicated, especially in advanced or recurrent disease.
- Clinical trials: Patients may have access to cutting-edge therapies and investigational treatments.
Our Expertise
As the National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center serving the Mountain West, we’re here to offer you the latest treatments and the highest level of care available. Here are just a few of our areas of expertise:
- Comprehensive care from a multidisciplinary team reviewing each case at tumor board conferences.
- Use of advanced surgical, radiation, and systemic therapies tailored to each patient.
- Supportive services, including fertility counseling, survivorship care, and integrative therapies (nutrition, wellness, and emotional support) for a whole-person approach.
Patient Care Philosophy
We believe no one should face cancer alone. Our dedicated and world-renowned doctors, nurses, and medical staff are at the forefront of patient-centered care. We treat the whole person, not just their cancer.
Each day, our medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists work together across disciplines to create and coordinate treatment plans for every patient. We understand cancer is a complex disease. That is why we use a team approach that includes social workers and support groups, as well as wellness and integrative health services such as acupuncture, massage, creative arts, and more.
Find a Cervical Cancer Doctor
Cervical Cancer Research
Huntsman Cancer Institute is a nationally recognized leader in gynecologic cancer research, driving innovations that improve detection, treatment, and survivorship for people with cervical cancer. Our specialty Breast and Gynecologic Cancers Disease Center brings together doctors and scientists who work side by side to turn scientific discoveries into better outcomes for you.
We also lead and participate in clinical trials focused on promising treatments. With the largest Phase 1 clinical trials program in the Mountain West, Huntsman Cancer Institute offers patients access to cutting-edge therapies not widely available elsewhere.
Clinical Trials
Make an Appointment with a Cervical Cancer Specialist
To make an appointment with a cervical cancer specialist, fill out our appointment form or call 801-587-7000. Our team will determine if your insurance covers treatment at Huntsman Cancer Institute or if you need a referral from a primary care doctor.
External providers can refer a patient using the online referral form or by calling 801-587-7000 to speak to a patient registration specialist.
Cervical Cancer Basics
Cervical cancer occurs when abnormal (cancerous) cells form in the tissues of the cervix—the lower, narrow part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.
These are common warning signs of cervical cancer:
- Vaginal bleeding (after intercourse, between periods, or after menopause)
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Pelvic pain or pain during sex
Because early-stage cervical cancer often causes no symptoms, regular screening is essential. Additionally, many of these symptoms may be caused by other conditions. If you are experiencing any concerning signs, please schedule a screening today.
These are the risk factors for cervical cancer:
- Persistent infection with high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV)—the most common cause of cervical cancer.
- Smoking, which can worsen the effects of HPV and increase risk.
- Weakened immune system (e.g., immunosuppression)—less ability to clear HPV infections.
- History of DES exposure (in older generations) and long-term use of oral contraceptives—though risks are lower than with HPV.
These risk factors don’t guarantee development of cancer but increase likelihood compared to the average person. Understand your risk. Schedule a genetic counseling session today.
Doctors may use these methods to screen for and diagnose cervical cancer:
- Pelvic exam: Physical examination of the cervix, uterus, ovaries, vagina, and surrounding tissues.
- Pap test: Collection of cells from the cervix to look for precancerous or cancerous changes.
- HPV testing: Detection of high-risk HPV strains that are associated with cervical cancer.
- Imaging (MRI/CT) and biopsy: Evaluation of the extent and stage and to confirm diagnosis when abnormalities are found.
People facing a cancer diagnosis are often scared about what may happen. At Huntsman Cancer Institute, our Patient & Family Support social workers help patients deal with these feelings and concerns.
Cervical cancer staging describes how far the cancer has spread.
- Stage 0: Precancerous or carcinoma in situ—abnormal cells are only on the surface lining of the cervix.
- Stage 1: Cancer is confined to the cervix.
- Stage 2: Cancer has spread beyond the cervix to the upper part of the vagina or nearby tissues but not to the pelvic wall.
- Stage 3: Cancer has spread to the pelvic wall or lower vagina or has caused kidney problems.
- Stage 4: Cancer has spread to other organs (e.g., bladder, rectum, or distant organs like lungs or liver).
If cancer spreads, it is treated as metastatic cervical cancer—the cancer cells remain cervical in origin, even at distant sites.
Need help navigating your care? The Cancer Learning Center is here to support you with personalized guidance, resources, and answers to your questions.
These steps can help prevent cervical cancer and detect it early:
- HPV vaccination: Protects against high-risk HPV strains responsible for most cervical cancers.
- Regular screening (Pap test and/or HPV testing): Detects precancerous changes before they develop into invasive cancer.
- Safe sex practices and smoking cessation: Reduces exposure to HPV and other risk factors.
If cancer spreads, it is treated as metastatic cervical cancer—the cancer cells remain cervical in origin, even at distant sites.
Learn more about ways to prevent cancer:
At Huntsman Cancer Institute, we offer supportive services for patients with cervical cancer, their caregivers, and loved ones:
- Fertility counseling (when fertility-preserving treatments are possible)
- Nutritional, psychosocial, and wellness support
- Integrative health services (e.g., acupuncture, massage)
- Survivorship planning, follow-up care, and support groups
Learn more about resources Huntsman Cancer Institute offers:
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