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What is gynecologic cancer? -

Gynecologic cancer is any cancer that starts in a woman’s reproductive organs. They develop in different places within a woman’s pelvis, which is the area below the stomach and in between the hip bones.

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Types of gynecologic cancer -

Cancer is always named for the part of the body where it starts. There are five main types of gynecologic cancer: cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar.

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What are the symptoms? -

It's important to pay attention to your body and know what is normal for you. This way, you can recognize the warning signs or symptoms of gynecologic cancer. Remember: symptoms and signs aren't the same for everyone.

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Common symptoms -

Except for vulvar cancer, abnormal bleeding or discharge is common for all gynecologic cancers. If you have vaginal bleeding that's unusual for you, talk to a doctor right away. Also, any vaginal bleeding after menopause needs to be reported to your doctor.

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Common symptoms -

Feeling full too quickly, difficulty eating, bloating, and abdominal pain are common symptoms of ovarian cancer. So is experiencing back pain.

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Common symptoms -

More frequent or urgent need to urinate, and even constipation, are common signs of ovarian and vaginal cancers.

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Common symptoms -

Pelvic pain or pressure can be caused by constipation or irritable bowel syndrome. But it's also common in ovarian and uterine cancers.

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Common symptoms -

Itching, burning, pain, or tenderness of the vulva are symptoms found only in vulvar cancer. Women will also notice changes in the color of the skin around the area, as well as rashes, sores, or warts.

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How can you reduce the risk? -

Each type of gynecologic cancer has different risk factors, which increase with age. But it's important to know that there are ways reduce the risk.

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Protect yourself from HPV -

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common sexually transmitted infection. HPV is the main cause of cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers.

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HPV vaccine -

The HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that most often cause gynecologic cancers. The vaccine is recommended for preteens aged 11 to 12 years.

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HPV vaccine -

The HPV vaccine can also be taken between the ages of 15 to 26. However, the individual will have to take three doses, instead of two. Do note that HPV vaccination prevents new HPV infections, but does not treat existing infections.

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Use condoms -

HPV is spread by direct contact, so you should use condoms. It will reduce your risk for HPV transmission, but it won't completely eliminate it, as the virus can be present in areas not covered by the condom.

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Screening tests -

A screening test is used to look for a disease before there are any symptoms. It can find the disease early, which can lead to a more effective treatment.

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Exercise regularly -

Exercising regularly has many physical benefits and reduces your risk of developing some cancers. For example, endometrial cancer is strongly linked to obesity. Therefore, it's important to maintain a healthy weight.

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Don't smoke -

Smoking harms your body and increases the risk of developing many types of cancers. By not smoking, you'll reduce the risk of developing not only cancers, but also heart diseases.

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Share your family history with your doctor -

Inherited mutations of the BRCA (breast cancer) gene increases the risk of female ovarian and breast cancers. Make sure you know your family history and share it with your doctor.

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Enjoy a healthy diet -

To reduce your risk of developing a gynecologic cancer, it’s important to eat a healthy diet consisting of fruit, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

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Women should have their first pap smear by age 21 -

The pap smear looks for abnormal cell changes in the cervix to detect cervical cancer in its early stages. All women aged 21-65 should get regular pap smears by their gynecologist.

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Recognize the warning signs -

Since there are no simple ways to screen for gynecologic cancers, except cervical cancer, it's especially important to know the warning signs. Don't be afraid to talk to your doctor if you believe you're at increased risk.

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How are gynecologic cancers treated? -

If you're diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer, you'll be referred to a gynecologic oncologist. This doctor will work with you to create a treatment plan.

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Surgery -

There are several treatments for gynecologic cancers, which depend on the type and how far it has spread. Women will often get more than one kind of treatment. For example, during surgery, the cancer tissue is removed by the doctor.

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Chemotherapy -

Chemotherapy uses special medicines to shrink or kill the cancer. The patient either take pills or medicines administered in their veins. Sometimes they're even given both.

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Radiation -

Another type of treatment is radiation. This treatment uses high-energy rays, similar to X-rays, to kill the cancer.

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Clinical trials -

Several institutes are doing clinical trials on patients. They use new treatment options to see if they're safe and effective. Cancer patients who are interested can seek to take part in them.

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Complementary and alternative medicine -

Complementary and alternative medicine are practices that aren't standard cancer treatments. They include yoga, meditation, and supplements with herbs and vitamins. As many haven't been scientifically tested, make sure to consult a doctor about the risks and benefits.

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What is the right treatment for you? -

It's hard to choose the right course of treatment. Talk to your doctor about the treatment options available for your type and stage of cancer. They can explain the risks and benefits of each treatment and their side effects.

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Consider a second opinion -

Sometimes people get a second opinion from more than one doctor. This may help you choose the treatment that is right for you.

Sources: (CDC) (National Foundation for Cancer Research)

See also: The biggest women's health myths 

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