Gynecological cancers
Gynecologic cancers begin in the female reproductive system or genitals. They include cervical cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, and vaginal and vulvar cancer.
Our multidisciplinary team of specialists can provide you with proven treatments and—just as importantly—the hope that helps you heal.
Learn more about gynecological cancers
Treatment expertise for an array of cancer types
We provide advanced care for anyone diagnosed with a type of gynecologic cancer. We have long been recognized for developing and setting new standards in cancer treatment. We are also noted for providing expert second opinions on all aspects of gynecologic cancer care
Our specialists and multidisciplinary teams treat a wide variety of gynecologic cancers with the latest procedures and technology, including:
- Cervical cancer
- Endometrial and uterine cancer, the most common type of gynecological cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Vaginal cancer
- Vulvar cancer
If you have symptoms that concern you, or you’ve been diagnosed and received a referral, please make an appointment today with one of our gynecological cancer specialists. From diagnosis to treatment, you’ll receive personalized, doctor-managed care that emphasizes wellness and healing for you as a whole person. Whenever possible, we offer fertility-sparing treatment.
Symptoms of gynecological cancer
Each type of gynecological cancer has specific symptoms, but in general you should see your doctor if you experience:
- Abdominal bloating.
- Fatigue.
- Menstrual irregularities.
- Pain during intercourse.
- Pelvic or abdominal pain.
- Urinary symptoms, such as urgency or frequency
- Vaginal discharge, which may be clear, white, or tinged with blood.
The latest research shows that the main cause of gynecological cancers is gene defects resulting from human papillomavirus (HPV), but there are other risk factors to consider.
Fortunately, most women with HPV don’t develop cervical cancer. If you don’t know if you have HPV, we can give you an HPV test and an HPV vaccine if necessary.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about gynecological cancers
Yes, depending on the type and stage. In fact, most cancers that are detected early can be successfully cured.
The specific survival rate depends on the type of gynecological cancer. For example, the combined 5-year survival rate for fallopian tube cancer is 60%, while the combined 5-year survival rate for ovarian stromal is 89%.
You can reduce your chance of cancer by avoiding the known risk factors, eating a healthy diet and exercising, and by not getting HPV.
Treatments for gynecological cancer
Our treatment for gynecologic cancers varies, as we customize a plan for each patient. Your medical team will use the best combination of therapies and treatments to properly evaluate your situation and create a personalized plan to fit your exact needs and preferences.
Your expert medical team may include:
- Gynecologic oncologists.
- Radiation oncologists.
- Urologic oncologists.
- Oncology social worker.
- Nurses or registered nurses (RNs).
- Nutritionists.
- Physician assistants (PAs).
- Medical residents.
- Integrative medicine and complementary care options such as massage therapy, acupuncture, aromatherapy, exercise consultation and a Chinese herbal pharmacist.
References
Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Basic Information About Gynecologic Cancers (https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/gynecologic/basic_info/index.htm)
Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Gynecologic Cancers (https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/gynecologic/index.htm)
National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI): National Library of Medicine. Recognizing Gynecological Cancer in Primary Care: Risk Factors, Red Flags, and Referrals (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5910472/)
National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI): National Library of Medicine. Quality of Life in Patients with Gynecological Cancers: A Web-Based Study (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7573423/)