The cervix is the lower part of the womb, or uterus. Sometimes the cervix is referred to as the neck of the womb.
Skip the primary navigation if you do not want to read it as the next section.
Skip the main content if you do not want to read it as the next section.
Skip the location trail if you do not want to read it as the next section.
Location trail
ABOUT CANCER > SCREENING > CERVICAL SCREENING > THE CERVIXThe cervix and cervical screening
The cervix and surrounding organs
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.
The transformation zone area of the cervix
Content last reviewed: 01 February 2008
Page last modified: 13 March 2008
Page last modified: 13 March 2008