In addition to conducting a personal and family history and a physical examination with special attention to the lymph nodes for evidence of metastasis, or spreading of cancer, the physician may use one or more of several other tests:

• Colposcopy: Physical examination that allows the doctor to examine the vagina and cervix closely with a lighted magnification scope to detect abnormalities on their surfaces.
• Cystoscopy: Physical examination that allows physicians to check the inside surface of the bladder with a scope for the spread of cervical cancer.
• Proctoscopy: Physical examination that allows the physician to examine the rectum with a scope for the spread of cervical cancer.
• Pelvic examination under anesthesia: Allows for more extensive examination to determine whether the cancer has spread beyond the cervix.
• Chest X-ray: This is performed to determine if cervical cancer has spread to the lungs.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan: This imaging method uses an X-ray beam that rotates around the body taking images at various angles to determine whether cancer has spread to pelvic and para-aortic (upper abdominal) lymph nodes. A dye called contrast medium is injected before the exam to highlight abnormal areas. A computer then combines these images to offer a detailed view of the area inside of the body.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan: An imaging method that uses magnetic fields and a computer to produce detailed pictures of the inside of the body to determine whether cancer has spread to pelvic and para-aortic lymph nodes. Because CT exams provide similar information less expensively, MRI is often not used for evaluating cervical cancer.
• Intravenous urography (IVP): An imaging method that finds abnormalities, such as blockages, in the urinary tract. The X-ray is taken after injecting a special dye that the kidneys remove from the bloodstream and pass with urine into the ureters and bladder. Also called an intravenous pyelogram or IVP.