Gynecologic Cancers
Gynecologic cancers occur when abnormal cells form in the tissues of the female reproductive system, which includes the cervix, uterus and ovaries.
Six common types of cancers affect women: breast, cervical, uterine, ovarian, vaginal and vulvar. See your gynecologist if you notice vaginal bleeding, have unusual vaginal discharge, feel pelvic pain or have pain while having sex.
Gynecologic cancers can grow slowly or quickly, depending on where tumors grow in our bodies. Although some precancerous cells take years to turn cancerous, an annual test called a Pap smear can help detect changes in your cervix. Schedule an annual exam with your gynecologist today, and always check your breasts monthly for unusual lumps.
If these cancers are not caught early, aggressive treatments may be needed, such as removal of parts of the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are also commonly used to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.
Recently Answered
- Q What are natural treatments for gynecological cancers?
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Meditation: There is good evidence that various types of meditation may help improve quality of life in cancer patients. Studies have shown benefits for mood, sleep quality, and the stresses of treatment. The specific effects of meditation are not fully... Full Answer
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- Q What are complications of gynecological cancers?
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Complications of gynecological cancers include metastasis (spreading) to other organs, including the pelvic and abdominal lymph nodes, the abdominal cavity (causing fluid buildup), the lungs and sac surrounding the lungs (pleura), bones, liver, and... Full Answer
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- Q Can gynecologic cancers be prevented?
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While you may not be able to entirely prevent gynecologic cancers, you can lower your risk by taking certain precautions. Using birth control pills, having a baby and breastfeeding can decrease your risk of certain gynecologic cancers, such as ovarian... Full Answer
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- Q How can I prepare for an appointment to diagnose gynecologic cancer?
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You can prepare for an appointment to diagnose gynecologic cancer by making a list of all your symptoms, even those that may not seem to be relevant. Your doctor will need to know all about your medical history, including your history of STDs and sexual... Full Answer
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- Q Are there side effects to radiation therapy for gynecologic cancers?
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Radiation therapy is used to treat some types of gynecologic cancers, including vaginal and vulvar cancers. Side effects of radiation therapy include inflammation of the rectum, irritation of the bladder, narrowing of the vaginal opening, weakening of... Full Answer
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- Q Are there side effects to chemotherapy for gynecologic cancers?
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The side effects of chemotherapy for gynecologic cancers include nausea, loss of hair, loss of appetite, and fatigue. It can also cause pain in the abdomen, diarrhea, and vomiting. Women of childbearing age may experience infertility or premature... Full Answer
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- Q How do I manage my gynecologic cancer on a daily basis?
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You can manage your gynecologic cancer by taking good care of yourself. As with most other types of cancer, good nutrition is essential in the successful treatment of gynecologic cancers. Try to eat a diet high in protein, calories, and nutrients. Eat... Full Answer
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- Q Should I get regular pelvic exams to prevent gynecologic cancers?
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Regular pelvic exams can help your doctor detect some types of gynecologic cancers in their early stages, when treatment is usually most successful. Cervical cancer, vaginal cancer, and vulvar cancer are often diagnosed this way. Due to heightened... Full Answer
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- Q Are there alternative treatments for gynecologic cancers?
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Alternative treatments do not typically address gynecologic cancers. However, evidence suggests that alternative treatments like acupuncture can help to relieve pain, and might be useful in relieving the symptoms of some gynecologic cancers. Alternative... Full Answer
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- Q How do medications treat gynecologic cancers?
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Chemotherapy drugs can improve your chances of surviving gynecologic cancer by destroying cancerous cells. Radiation therapy can also help to reduce the size of tumors. New treatments, like immunotherapy, can help your body's immune system fight the... Full Answer
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