Procedures

Procedures that your doctor may perform to detect whether or not you have cancer:

Biopsy.
This involves the removal by surgery of a sample of body tissue for examination under the microscope. Microscopic examination is the only way to tell if cancer cells are present.
Ultrasound
This procedure uses high frequency sound waves to produce images on a screen. It helps the doctor to see internal organs which do not show up on an X-ray.
Internal Pelvic Examination
With this kind of examination your doctor will feel for any lumps or changes in the shape of your pelvic organs, for example in your womb (uterus).
Cervical Smear (Pap Smear)
The smear test is a very simple procedure taking less than five minutes.
It can be slightly uncomfortable but it is not painful. This is a microscopic examination in which a sample of cells is taken from the neck of the womb. These cells are then examined under a microscope to check for the presence of cells that could, if left, change to cancer. A cervical smear can detect the disease at a completely curable stage.
Dilation and Curettage
Similar to the one above except the cervix is stretched open and the sample of tissue is taken from the lining of your uterus by means of a small spooned shaped instrument. You would always be put asleep for this examination. This tissue is then also checked under a microscope for cancer cells.
Mammogram
This is a low dose x-ray of the breast. It can find changes too small to be fel even by a trained examiner. Results will not show whether a lump is cancerous or not, only a biopsy can do that. It is recommended that women over 50, or who have a family history of breast cancer, should discuss with their doctor whether they should be referred for a mammogram.