Just diagnosed with Cervical Cancer — what should I do first

First Steps After a Cervical Cancer Diagnosis

I'm sorry you've received this diagnosis. Here's what you should focus on right now to get the best care possible.

IMMEDIATE PRIORITIES (First 1-2 Weeks)

1. Understand Your Diagnosis

Ask your doctor for clear answers about:

• What type of cervical cancer do I have? (According to NCCN Guidelines, most cervical cancers are squamous cell carcinoma, but some are adenocarcinoma or adenosquamous carcinoma—each may have different treatment approaches)
• What stage is my cancer? (The FIGO staging system—stages I through IV—determines your treatment options)
• Has HPV testing been done? (HPV, a common sexually transmitted infection, is the primary risk factor for cervical cancer, and knowing your HPV status may inform treatment decisions)

2. Get Complete Testing Done

Your care team will likely order:

• Imaging tests like CT scans of your chest, abdomen, and pelvis to see if cancer has spread (according to NCCN Guidelines for Cervical Cancer)
• Blood work to check your overall health before treatment
• Pathology review to confirm the exact type and characteristics of your cancer

3. Assemble Your Healthcare Team

• Find a gynecologic oncologist (a cancer specialist focused on women's reproductive cancers) at a major cancer center if possible
• Ask about a patient advocate through your insurance company—they can help navigate approvals and logistics
• Consider a second opinion before starting treatment, especially if you want to explore all options

KEY QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR

1. What is the goal of my treatment? (Is it to cure the cancer, control it, or manage symptoms?)
2. What are my treatment options? (Common approaches include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or combinations—NCCN Guidelines outline these based on your stage)
3. What are the side effects I should expect? (Both short-term and long-term)
4. Are there clinical trials available for my type and stage of cancer?
5. If I want to have children in the future, what are my options? (According to NCCN Guidelines, fertility-sparing treatments may be possible for early-stage cancers, including options like ovarian transposition to protect your ovaries from radiation damage)
6. Who do I call if I have questions or problems between appointments?

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS

Fertility & Pregnancy: If you're of childbearing age and want children in the future, discuss this with your team before treatment starts. NCCN Guidelines note that some treatments can affect fertility, but options like egg freezing or ovarian transposition may be available depending on your cancer stage.

Support System: Don't go through this alone. Identify someone who can:

• Attend appointments with you and take notes
• Help you understand medical information
• Provide emotional support
• Help manage logistics (transportation, appointments, insurance)

Gather Your Records: Request copies of:

• Pathology reports
• Imaging results
• Any biopsies or test results
• Your complete medical history

RESOURCES TO HELP YOU

According to NCCN Guidelines for Cervical Cancer, these organizations offer reliable information and support:

• National Cancer Institute (NCI): cancer.gov
• American Cancer Society: cancer.org
• National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship: canceradvocacy.org
• Clinical trials database: clinicaltrials.gov

WHAT NOT TO DO

• Don't rush into treatment without understanding your options
• Don't skip the second opinion if something doesn't feel right
• Don't assume you can't ask questions—your care team expects them
• Don't neglect your emotional and mental health during this process

---

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical advice and decisions.

Your oncologist will determine the most appropriate approach for YOUR specific case based on your complete clinical picture, including your cancer stage, type, and overall health.