What are Gynecologic Cancers?

Gynecologic cancers strike the organs of the female reproductive system and while there may be signs or symptoms, often there are not. In the United States, 82,000 women are diagnosed with gynecologic cancer each year. It's the fourth most common type of cancer in women and affects approximately one in 20 women.

A gynecologic oncologist is trained to care for all of types of gynecologic cancers including:

• Cervical Cancer
• Ovarian Cancer
• Endometrial and Uterine Cancer
• Vaginal Cancer
• Fallopian Tube Cancer
• Vulvar Cancer
• Gestational Trophoblastic Disease and Choriocarcinoma

Although gynecologic cancers are grouped together, they vary in terms of symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. Treatment options may include one or more of the following: chemotherapy, radiation or surgery.

Take Charge of Your Gynecological Health
Part of maintaining your gynecologic health is knowing what you can do to minimize your risk for gynecologic cancers. Experts agree there are certain steps that you can take to maintain your gynecologic health:

• Get to know your family history. If someone in your family, in particular a mother, sister or aunt, has suffered from gynecologic cancer, you may be at greater risk of developing the disease yourself. Knowing this history will help you take action toward prevention. Plus, you and your doctor can use this knowledge to determine the need and frequency of self-examinations and screening tests, such as the Pap test.
• Have a gynecologic exam performed annually. An annual gynecologic exam, including a Pap test, reduces your risk for gynecologic cancer. It allows early detection of cervical cancer when it is most treatable. In addition, your physician may recommend an HPV test to determine your risk of developing cervical cancer.
• Talk about risk factors. While all women are at risk for gynecologic cancer, some factors including smoking, sexually transmitted diseases, weight, age and family history can increase a woman's risk. Be sure to talk about risk factors with your doctor so that you can determine what screenings or preventive measures you need to take.
• Educate yourself about gynecologic cancers. Don't be afraid to talk with your doctor about gynecologic cancer. Before your next visit, write down your questions and concerns. In addition, use the many resources available on gynecologic cancer: the Internet, your local library or bookstore. Arming yourself with knowledge leads to empowerment and greater peace of mind.

Preventing Gynecologic Cancer
While there's no guaranteed way to prevent gynecologic cancer, one of the best ways to prevent all forms of cancer is a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise. Talk with your doctor about specific preventive measures you can implement into your lifestyle.

Six Warning Signs of Gynecologic Cancers
Early detection is essential for improved survival for patients with cancer. While the following warning signs and symptoms may seem vague, they can indicate that cancer is present. The six warning signs for gynecological cancer are:

• Unusual bleeding or discharge from the vagina
• A sore in the genital area that does not heal
• Pain or pressure in the pelvic area
• A change in bowel or bladder habits that persists
• Frequent or constant indigestion or bloating of the abdomen
• A thickening or lump in the pelvic region that either causes pain or can be seen and felt

If you experience any of these symptoms, talk with your doctor right away.

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