Endocervical uterine curettage is a gynecological examination performed by inserting a small instrument into the vagina until it reaches the cervix to wipe the tissue from this site. The scraped tissue is then examined under a microscope by a pathologist in a laboratory.
This test should be performed on all women who have been classified III, IV, V or CIN 3 on the pap smear to certify the diagnosis of cervical cancer.
How curettage is done
Curettage can be done in the clinic or hospital, under sedation, by the gynecologist. This is a quick procedure that lasts about 30 minutes and there is no need for hospitalization and so the woman can return home the same day. Learn more details of how this exam is done, such as its recovery and the necessary care to follow.
How to know if it is cancer of the cervix
The best way to know if you have cervical cancer is to investigate any cell changes through the pap smear that should be performed annually by all sexually active women.
Cervical cancer may not show symptoms, but these when they appear are:
- Vaginal discharge brown, pale, watery, pink, bloody or foul,
- Pain in close contacts,
- Bleeding after this contact
- Bleeding after menopause.
According to the National Cancer Institute (INCA), women who treat cervical cancer early (in situ) have a 100% chance of being cured.
