Cervical cancer cell, coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). The cervix is the lower part of the womb, also called the neck of the womb, and comprises part of the woman's reproductive system. Cervical cancer is more common in younger women. One of the main causes of cervical cancer is a persistent infection of certain types of human papilloma virus (HPV). The cell in this image is displaying a process known as blebbing. Blebbing is a bulge or protrusion of the plasma membrane of the cell which is visible on the cell surface. Blebbing is often seen during apoptosis which is the process of programmed cell death. Apoptosis can play a role in getting rid of cells that have been damaged or are old but can also play a role in preventing cancer. Magnification: x5200 when printed at 10 cm wide.