“Cervical cancer is classified into several stages:

The first stage of cervical cancer is carcinoma in situ (also known as precancer or severe dysplasia), in which a group of abnormal cells has started to grow but has not yet spread to nearby tissues. Because stage 0 “precancers” are likely to eventually spread deeper into the tissue and become cancerous, they should be treated.

Early Cervical Cancer (Stages I–IIA)

Although more extensive than stage 0, these cancers are still limited to the cervix.

Advanced Cervical Cancer (Stages IIB–IVA)

Cervical cancer that has spread beyond the cervix and invaded the surrounding pelvic tissues in the vagina, rectum, or bladder is known as locally advanced cervical cancer.

Stage IVB and Recurrent Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer that has spread beyond the pelvis (into the lungs or liver, for example), or has returned following initial therapy, is placed in this category.”

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (Cervical Cancer Diagnosis & Stages 0, 1, 2 ,3, 4 | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center)