Cervical cancer cell. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a dividing cervical cancer cell. The cell has a characteristically irregular surface with many cytoplasmic projections, which allows it to be motile. The cervix is the neck of the uterus or womb. Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women. It can take years to develop but can spread rapidly to nearby tissues and other organs. In the later stages, symptoms include vaginal discharge, bleeding and pelvic pain. Advanced forms of cervical cancer may be treated by surgical removal of the uterus and the ovaries. Magnification unknown.