Gynec Cancer
At Apex Cancer Clinic, we have the best cancer doctors who specialize in treating cancer
Gynecologic Cancer
Gynecologic cancer is an uncontrolled growth of cells in reproductive organs. Depending on location of tumour there are several types of gynecologic cancers which include cervical, gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD), primary peritoneal, ovarian, uterine/endometrial, vaginal and vulvar cancers.
What are the Signs and symptoms of Gynecologic Cancer?
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Itching or burning of the vulva
- Changes in vulva color or skin (rash, sores, warts, or ulcers)
- Changes in bathroom habits (increased urination, constipation, or diarrhea)
- Bloating
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge
- Pain in the back or stomach
How is Gynecologic Cancer Treated?
Gynecologic cancer may be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. If your doctor says that you have a gynecologic cancer, ask to be referred to a gynecologic oncologist—a doctor who has been trained to treat cancers of a woman’s reproductive system.
There are several treatment methods available for gynecologic cancer and it depends on the type of cancer and how far it has spread. Treatments may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Women with a gynecologic cancer often get combination of treatment.
- Surgery: Doctors remove tumour in an operation.
- Chemotherapy: Special medicines are used to shrink or kill the cancer. The drugs can be given orally or medicines given in your veins, or sometimes both.
- Radiation: Using high-energy rays (similar to X-rays) to kill the cancer and prevent cancer from recurring.
Are Gynecologic Cancers Preventable?
Regular screenings and self-examinations can help to detect certain types of gynecologic cancers in earlier stages and hence increasing the likelihood of successful treatment and the possibility for a complete cure. Also be aware of your family’s history to help determine if you may have a gene that makes you more susceptible to gynecologic cancer.
Lifestyle changes made in diet and exercise can have a significant role in the prevention of cancer.
What are causes of gynecological cancers?
Reproductive and menstrual history including never having children, starting your menstruation before age 12 and/or going through menopause after age 55
- Diabetes
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Smoking
- HIV infection or a weak immune system
- Obesity
- Previous history of breast or gynecologic cancer
- Older age
- Family history
- Use of oral birth control and/or fertility drugs
- Estrogen therapy
- High-fat diet
- Prior radiation to the pelvic area