Cervical dysplasia CIN 1. Colposcopy of the cervix (centre) with CIN 1 dysplasia. This is the first stage in the possible development of cervical cancer. The cervix is swollen; the affected precancerous area is the white, speckled region above the os (cervical canal). The speculum (silver) holds back the vaginal walls during an examination. Dysplasia occurs when cell division of the cervical stratified squamous epithelium is disrupted & there is abnormal cell growth. There are 3 stages of dysplasia; mild (CIN 1), moderate (CIN 2) and severe (CIN 3) with early cancer. Treatment depends upon the severity of the disease, but may involve surgery.