Cervix

The cervix is the lower, narrow portion of the uterus that opens into the vagina. It forms a passage between the uterine cavity and vagina and changes during menstruation, pregnancy, and childbirth.

Uterus: The hollow muscular organ in which a fertilized egg can implant and develop during pregnancy. The cervix is the uterus’s narrow lower portion.
Cervical ectropion: The presence of glandular cells from the cervical canal on the outer surface of the cervix. Hormonal changes can expose these delicate cells on the cervix’s outer surface.
Cervical cancer screening: Testing intended to detect cervical precancer or high-risk human papillomavirus before cancer develops. Screening samples cells or detects infection in cervical tissue.
Human papillomavirus: A group of viruses that infect skin and mucosal surfaces, with some types causing cancers and genital warts. Persistent infection with high-risk types causes most cervical cancers.
Vagina: A muscular, elastic canal extending from the cervix to the external genitalia. The vagina opens onto the cervix at its upper end.
Cervical ripening: The softening, thinning, and dilation-related remodeling of the cervix before and during labor. This remodeling prepares the cervix to open during childbirth.
Pap test: A screening test that examines cervical cells for precancerous changes and cancer. It samples cells from the cervix to find abnormalities.
Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia: Abnormal growth of cervical surface cells graded by the extent of epithelial involvement. These precancerous changes can be detected and treated before invasion.
Cervical canal: The passage through the cervix connecting the uterine cavity with the vagina. This channel is the route through the cervix.
Menstrual cycle: Recurring hormonal changes that prepare the ovaries and uterus for a possible pregnancy. Cycle hormones change cervical mucus and the position of the cervix.

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