A number of different tests are used to diagnose cervical cancer. The first step is a pelvic examination, which may be performed by a general practitioner or gynaecologist. Once the results from this test are available, other tests performed by a gynaecologist may include a colposcopy (with or without a biopsy) or cone biopsy.
 
Pelvic examination
This examination generally involves the doctor undertaking a visual inspection that includes the taking of a cervical smear and a bimanual examination.  For the cervical smear a speculum (instrument to hold the vaginal walls apart) is gently inserted into the vagina and the doctor visually inspects the cervix. A small spatula or brush-like device is then used to gently scrape some of the cells from the surface of the cervix. These cells are placed on a glass slide and sent to a laboratory for testing. The bimanual exam involves the doctor inserting two fingers into the vagina and with the other hand on the lower abdomen trying to get an appreciation of the size and shape of the ovaries and uterus, and any abnormalities.
 
Cone biopsy
If the cervical biopsy shows abnormal cells on the surface of the cervix, a cone biopsy may be recommended.  This involves the removal of a cone shaped piece of tissue from the cervix while under local or general anaesthetic. The tissue that is removed will be sent to a laboratory for analysis and to determine if all abnormal tissue was removed. The results will take approximately one week to become available.

Colposcopy
A colposcopy is a procedure that enables the specialist to examine the cervix with the aid of a special instrument called a colposcope. A colposcope looks similar to a pair of binoculars on a stand and it magnifies the surface of the cervix. The procedure is similar to a cervical smear in that a speculum is used to hold the walls of the vagina apart. The specialist applies a vinegar-like solution to the cervix, which turns any areas of abnormal tissue white.
 
If the doctor observes any suspicious areas of tissue during this procedure, a biopsy of cervical tissue is performed at the same time as the colposcopy. This involves the removal of a small piece of tissue (about the size of a match head) from the cervix. The biopsy results will take a few days to become available.
 
If a diagnosis of cervical cancer is made, other tests will be performed to determine if the cancer has spread. These tests may include:
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan
PET (Positron emission tomography) scan
Bone scan.
Examinations of the bladder and bowel under an anaesthetic (cystoscopy and proctosigmoidoscopy)
Ultrasound scan
CT (Computed Tomography) scan