Gynecologic cancer

All women are at risk of developing gynecological cancers, but there are certain conditions that may increase that risk. You may be high risk if you:

• Are 50 years old or older
• Are obese
• Don't have regular Pap screenings
• First had intercourse before the age of 16
• Have a family history of gynecological cancers
• Have a history of abnormal Pap smears
• Have had multiple sexual partners
• Have human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
• Have human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Have hypertension, diabetes, chronic vulvar irritation or late menopause
• Have never been pregnant or have had infertility problems
• Use the medication tamoxifen or use unopposed estrogen
• Use tobacco

There is no guaranteed way to prevent gynecologic cancer. However, you can reduce your risk factors by:

• Avoid tobacco use
• Eat a balanced diet
• Get regular cervical cancer screenings
• Get vaccinated against HPV
• Know your family history
• Pay attention to your body
• Stay physically active

Knowing the symptoms can help you be aware of early warning signs. Common symptoms include:

• Abdominal bloating, gas, indigestion, nausea or vomiting
• Abnormal bleeding, especially between periods or after menopause
• Abnormal discharge that is heavy, clear, white or tinged with blood
• Changes in vulva's color or skin, including rash, sores, warts or ulcers
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Feeling tired all the time
• Frequent, difficult, urgent or painful urination
• Heavy or irregular periods
• Loss of appetite
• Pain during intercourse or vaginal bleeding after intercourse
• Pain in the back or stomach
• Pain, swelling, pressure or feeling heavy in the abdomen or pelvis
• Quickly feeling full when eating
• Severe itching or burning of the vulva
• Shortness of breath
• Unexplained weight loss
• Vaginal discharge with an unusual odor
• Vaginal or abdominal lump or mass

Our experts can treat you in various ways, including robotic surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy or a combination as part of your customized treatment plan. Our team of gynecological oncologists, surgeons, medical oncologists and radiation oncologists collaborate to determine the best course of treatment for your condition. We also offer cancer rehabilitation to help manage the side effects that may develop after cancer treatment.

A second opinion can help you make an informed decision about your medical care. Getting a second opinion from an oncology expert is simple, convenient, secure and can all be done remotely. Register for your second opinion easily online.