Understanding your diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but knowing the stage of your cervical cancer is an important step in planning your treatment. The information below helps your medical team tailor a plan that’s right for you. Here’s a friendly, clear breakdown of what the stages mean:
- Stage 1: The cancer is small and mainly contained within the cervix. It might have spread to nearby lymph nodes, but it hasn’t reached other parts of your body.
- Stage 2: The tumor is a bit larger and may have grown beyond the cervix and uterus, possibly affecting nearby lymph nodes. However, it remains within your pelvic area.
- Stage 3: The cancer has spread to the lower part of the vagina or other areas in the pelvis. Sometimes, it can even block the tubes (ureters) that carry urine from your kidneys to your bladder. It has not yet moved beyond the pelvic region.
- Stage 4: At this stage, the cancer has spread beyond the pelvis and may have reached distant organs such as the lungs, bones, or liver.
Remember, your healthcare team is here to support you every step of the way. Understanding your stage is just one part of the journey, and together, you’ll work on the best plan for your care.
