If she sees a problem, she scrapes a cell sample for the lab. The scrape usually feels a little more pronounced than the pap scrape. If she thinks it's warranted, she'll snip a larger lab sample for a biopsy. Cervical cancer is rare in women who have regular pap tests, because it can be treated and cured if it's found early. And, if the pap does detect precancerous cells, treatments can be administered right in the doctor's office.
Lasers can also be effective.
If a woman is diagnosed with a more-advanced cancer, her doctor might refer her to an oncologist to discuss further options. I kept my mouth shut, as if every word swallowed would bring this to a quicker close. The nurse put down her vials and left. I was alone with an exam table, complete with cotton-footed stirrups and a big white sheet. I took off all my clothes, got wrapped in my toga and sat on the table.