Gynecologic cancer

Radiation therapy is a type of cancer treatment that is used to shrink or destroy a tumor. During radiation therapy, beams of energy are aimed directly at the tumor. This precision destroys the cancerous tumor but leaves surrounding tissue unharmed.

If a cancerous tumor is found in the cervix, ovaries, uterus or vulva, your oncologist may recommend surgery. Surgery may be used to remove only the tumor, or your gynecologic cancer surgeon may suggest an operation that removes the organ entirely.

A hysterectomy, for example, involves the removal of the uterus and can be used to ensure any potential tissue affected by cancer has been removed. This reduces the risk of the cancer returning.

Preventive care is often the best defense against cancer. Because of this, yearly screenings for gynecologic cancer are recommended to help detect gynecologic cancer when it is in its earlier, more treatable stages.

During a yearly screening exam, your doctor will most likely conduct:

• An annual pelvic exam
• A Pap smear
• A test for human papillomavirus (HPV)

Preventive gynecologic care helps your doctor detect cancer early, as well as identify any risk factors that may put you at a greater risk for the disease. During the exam, you can tell your doctor about any abdominal pain or urinary issues you’ve been experiencing. Your physician can then decide if additional tests are needed.

Some gynecologic cancers may have mild or no symptoms until the disease is in an advanced stage. Additionally, symptoms of gynecologic cancer can mimic common, noncancerous conditions. However, knowing the signs and symptoms of gynecologic cancer can help you know when to mention something to your doctor.

They can include:

• A heavy feeling in the pelvis and/or pelvic pain
• A vaginal lump
• Gas, nausea, vomiting or loss of appetite
• Lower abdominal pain
• Pain during intercourse
• Trouble urinating
• Unexpected and worsening back pain
• Unusual vaginal bleeding, discharge and/or abnormal periods
• Weight gain or loss

Gynecologic cancer is often identified during routine gynecologic screenings. This means your first line of defense is usually a gynecologist, a doctor that specializes in women's reproductive organs, or an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN), a doctor that specializes in gynecology and childbirth.

Once a diagnosis has been made, you will likely be referred to one of our gynecologic cancer specialists. These specialists have extensive experience with all types of gynecologic cancer. Additionally, they will partner with the other cancer specialists and medical professionals in our network to provide you with comprehensive cancer care.