Cervical & Ovarian Cancer Screening & Care
Understand Your Risk. Find Cancer Early. Get Clear Answers.
Gynecologic cancer care at Community Care brings together experienced specialists in women’s health and oncology to focus on prevention, early detection, and coordinated care. Our team of OB/GYNs and primary care providers are dedicated to screening and diagnosing ovarian, cervical, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. Of all gynecologic cancers, only cervical cancer has an effective screening pathway supported by strong evidence — meaning tests can find precancerous changes or cancer early, when treatment works best.
Cervical Cancer Screening: What You Need to Know
Why Cervical Screening Matters
Cervical cancer usually develops slowly over many years, often beginning with cell changes caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Screening aims to detect these abnormalities before cancer develops, or to find cancer at an early, more treatable stage.
Recommended Screening Guidelines
According to the U.S. Preventive Task Force and the American Cancer Society Guidelines, all women should be screened for cervical cancer at the age of 21. It is recommended that women between the ages of 21 and 29 have a Pap test every 3 years and should not be tested for HPV unless it is needed after an abnormal Pap test result. Women 30 to 65 years of age should have both a Pap test and an HPV test every 5 years, though a Pap test alone every 3 years is also appropriate.
Generally, women over the age of 65 who have had regular screenings with normal results should not be screened for cervical cancer. However, women who have been diagnosed with cervical pre-cancer should continue to be screened. Additionally, women who have had their uterus and cervix removed in a hysterectomy and don’t have a history of cervical pre-cancer or cancer don’t need to be screened.
You should talk with your provider about your personal risk, especially if you have a history of abnormal results, a weakened immune system, or other risk factors.
Important: HPV vaccination helps prevent the infections most likely to cause cervical cancer, but vaccinated individuals still need screening as recommended.
What Screening Tests Do
Pap Test (Pap Smear):
A Pap test collects cells from the cervix to look for abnormal changes that could become cancer if untreated. It may also detect infection or inflammation.
HPV Test:
This test checks for high‑risk HPV types that can lead to cervical cancer. When used alone or in combination with a Pap test, it provides powerful insight into your risk.
Both tests help your care team decide when you need follow‑up or additional evaluation.
If Results Are Abnormal
If a Pap test or HPV test shows abnormalities, your provider may recommend further evaluation, such as:
- Colposcopy: A closer exam of the cervix using magnification.
- Biopsy: Removal of a small tissue sample for microscopic analysis.
These follow‑up procedures help determine whether precancerous changes or cervical cancer are present and guide next steps in care. Your gynecologist may also order imaging tests, such as an x-ray, CT scan or MRI to determine if the cancer has spread, or metastasized, beyond the cervix to other parts of the body.
Ovarian Health: Awareness Matters
While there has been a lot of research to develop a screening test for ovarian cancer, there hasn’t been much success so far. The 2 tests used most often to screen for ovarian cancer are — transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) and the CA-125 blood test – both have limitations. TVUS is a test that uses sound waves to look at the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries using an ultrasound wand. This can help detect a mass but can’t determine if the mass is cancer. CA-125 is a protein in the blood and many women with ovarian cancer have high levels of CA-125. However, common conditions other than cancer can also cause high levels of CA-125.
The best thing women can do is be diligent about getting regular women’s health exams. Also, visit your doctor if you notice any changes in your body or potential symptoms, including abdominal swelling or bloating, pelvic pressure or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, and/or urinary symptoms like having to go urgently or more frequently. While many of these are symptoms of conditions other than cancer, it’s important to be open and honest with your doctor if you experience any changes in your body or habits.
Genetic Testing
BRCA1 and BRCA2 are genes that produce tumor-suppressor proteins, which help repair damaged DNA and maintain cell stability. Mutations in these genes can increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
Community Care offers genetic testing to help women understand if they are at higher risk for ovarian cancer due to inherited BRCA mutations. Women with a family history of breast, ovarian, fallopian tube, or peritoneal cancer may benefit from evaluation and testing, following the recommendations of the United States Preventive Services Task Force.
When a family member with cancer is available for testing, it is preferred to test them first. If a harmful BRCA mutation is identified, other family members can consider testing. If testing of an affected family member isn’t possible, individuals with a relevant family history may still be evaluated for BRCA mutations.
Locations for Genetic Testing and Counseling
Upstate Hematology Oncology
UHO partners with Ferre Genetics, the primary genetic counseling resource for the Albany area. Patients can schedule a virtual visit or meet in person at the UHO office to review results and discuss personalized recommendations.
Capital Region Women's Care
Capital Region Women’s Care provides a lab order for Integrated Genetics, allowing patients to have their blood drawn at CCP’s LabCare, or refers to Ferre Genetics. Our team counsels patients on their results when they become available, helping them understand implications for screening, prevention, and family planning.