The cervix is the lower part of the womb, or uterus. Sometimes the cervix is referred to as the neck of the womb.

It is possible for your doctor or nurse to see and feel the cervix during an internal (vaginal) examination.

The surface layer of the cervix is made up of two different types of cells: flat cells called squamous cells and longer cells called columnar cells. The area where these cells meet is known as the transformation zone (see diagram below). Cells in this transformation zone can become abnormal. It is these cells, on the surface of the cervix, that are examined in a cervical screening test.

The cells lining the cervical canal (endocervix) produce mucus – they are known as glandular cells. Changes to these cells can sometimes be detected by cervical screening.