Talking often with the doctor is important [2] to make informed decisions about your health care. These suggested questions are a starting point to help you learn more about your cancer care and treatment. You are also encouraged to ask additional questions that are important to you.

Prevention/before a diagnosis of cervical cancer

• Should I receive the HPV vaccine?
• Should I be tested for HPV infection? What does this mean?
• How often should I have a Pap test?

After a diagnosis of cervical cancer or precancer

• What is my diagnosis, and what does it mean?
• What is the stage of the precancer or cancer? What does this mean?
• Can you explain my pathology report (laboratory test results) to me?
• What are my treatment options?
• What clinical trials are open to me?
• What treatment plan do you recommend? Why?
• Who will be part of my health care team, and what does each member do?
• Who will be coordinating my overall treatment and follow-up care?
• What are the possible side effects of this treatment, both in the short term and the long term?
• Will this treatment affect my ability to become pregnant in the future? Should I talk with a fertility expert before starting treatment?
• How will this treatment affect my daily life? Will I be able to work, exercise, and perform my usual activities?
• If I’m worried about managing the costs related to my cancer care, who can help me with these concerns?
• Should I stop have sex during treatment?
• Will my sex life be affected after treatment?
• What can I do to stay healthy as possible during and after treatment?
• What follow-up tests will I need, and how often will I need them?
• What support services are available to me? To my family?
• Whom do I call for questions or problems?