What does a gynecological cancer screening mainly check for?

Nov 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

Gynecological cancer screening includes human papillomavirus (HPV) testing, liquid-based thin-layer cytology, colposcopy, cervical biopsy, ultrasound examination, and others, which can detect early abnormalities associated with gynecological malignancies such as cervical cancer and ovarian cancer. If positive results are found or any symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly for further diagnosis. Human papillomavirus (HPV) testing.

Gynecological cancer screening includes human papillomavirus (HPV) testing, liquid-based thin-layer cytology (TCT), colposcopy, cervical biopsy, and ultrasound examination. These tests can detect early abnormalities associated with gynecological malignancies such as cervical and ovarian cancers. If positive results are found or symptoms occur, timely medical evaluation and further diagnosis are recommended.

1. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Testing: This test checks for infection with high-risk types of HPV, the primary cause of cervical cancer. A cervical cell sample is collected to identify specific viral subtypes, helping assess individual risk for developing cervical cancer.

2. Liquid-Based Thin-Layer Cytology (TCT): Also known as TCT testing, this involves collecting exfoliated cervical cells for cytological analysis to determine whether cellular abnormalities are present. It screens for cervical precancerous lesions and early-stage cervical cancer, serving as a fundamental component of cancer prevention.

3. Colposcopy: Performed when HPV or TCT results are abnormal, this procedure uses magnification to closely examine the cervix and vaginal mucosa, identifying subtle lesions. It provides precise localization for subsequent biopsies, improving diagnostic accuracy.

4. Cervical Biopsy: Under colposcopic guidance, suspicious cervical tissue is sampled and examined pathologically. This is the gold standard for diagnosing cervical cancer and precancerous conditions, allowing definitive determination of lesion type and severity.

5. Ultrasound Examination: Includes abdominal or transvaginal ultrasound to evaluate the structure of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. It helps screen for ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, and other abnormalities such as space-occupying lesions or fluid accumulation.

Avoid sexual intercourse, vaginal douching, and medication use before the examination, and schedule the test outside of menstruation. After testing, maintain external genital hygiene, avoid strenuous activities, follow a light diet, and undergo regular follow-up exams as instructed by your healthcare provider to maximize the effectiveness of cancer screening.

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What is hydrosalpinx of the ampulla of the fallopian tube?

In general, hydrosalpinx of the fallopian tube ampulla may be caused by hormonal fluctuations during menstruation, unhealthy lifestyle habits, chronic pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, or tubal tuberculosis. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, attention should be paid to personal hygiene and unclean sexual practices should be avoided; maintain a balanced diet to enhance immunity; and undergo regular gynecological examinations.

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What does physiological change in the ovary mean?

In general, physiological changes in the ovaries refer to non-pathological structural or functional alterations that occur during the normal menstrual cycle. If discomfort or abnormal symptoms arise, timely medical consultation is recommended. Regular gynecological examinations are important to differentiate physiological changes from pathological conditions, using methods such as ultrasound. Upon detection of cystic or solid ovarian structures, excessive anxiety should be avoided.

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The cervical os has several shapes.

The cervical os primarily has two basic shapes: circular and transversely slit-like. Differences in shape are often related to whether a woman has experienced childbirth; the circular type is more common in women who have not given birth, while the transversely slit-like shape is more prevalent among parous women. Both shapes are considered normal physiological variations and do not require special treatment. Regardless of the shape of the cervical os, women should pay attention to cervical health and undergo regular gynecological examinations.

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What does iodine test staining mean?

In general, the iodine test staining refers to a diagnostic method in gynecological examinations where the doctor applies an iodine solution onto the surface of the cervix or vaginal mucosa and observes the tissue's staining reaction to assess potential abnormalities. After the examination, it is important to maintain external genital hygiene and avoid sexual intercourse and tub bathing on the same day to prevent bacterial infection. If sampling was performed during the examination, slight vaginal bleeding may occur.