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Glossary

Abnormal cervical cells

Abnormal cervical cells are cells in the lining of the cervix that have changed in appearance. The more severe the cervical abnormality, the more likely it is that cervical cancer could develop in the future.36

Antibodies

Antibodies are proteins found in your blood. They respond to foreign substances that may be a threat to your body. Antibodies are important to fight against diseases.37

Benign

Benign is a term used to describe something that will not cause cancer. For example, genital warts are considered benign.38

Cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is cancer of the cervix. Cervical cancer is a serious condition that can be life threatening.36

Cervix

The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.36

Genital HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

About 40 types of HPV are known as genital HPV, since they affect the anogenital area. Learn more about HPV.36

Genital warts

Genital warts are usually flesh-coloured growths that are caused by certain HPV types. Learn more about genital warts.8, 28

Gynaecological exam

A gynaecological exam is an examination of a woman by a doctor or specialist gynaecologist. During this routine exam, the doctor may perform a pap smear to check for abnormal cells in the lining of the cervix.36

Precancers

Precancers are highly abnormal cervical cells that have a high likelihood of becoming cervical cancer.36

Pap Smear

A pap smear, also known as a smear test or pap test, is part of the gynaecological exam and helps detect abnormal cells in the lining of the cervix.36

Uterus

The uterus is a muscular organ located in the pelvic cavity of females in which the fertilized egg implants and develops into a foetus. It is also called the womb.36, 39

Vagina

The vagina is a 3- to 4-inch tube. Its upper part ends at the cervix and its lower part opens to the outside onto the vulva, the external female genitals.39

Womb

The womb is a muscular organ located in the pelvic cavity of females in which the fertilized egg implants and develops into a foetus. It is also called the uterus.39