Gynecologic Cancers

What is a gynecologic cancer?

What are the symptoms of female cancer?

The signs of gynecologic cancers can be vague and similar to those of other conditions.That’s why it’s important to know what to look for. So, no matter how young or old you are, it’s important to know what to look for. That way, if these symptoms do appear, you can alert your doctor right away. After all, recognizing the symptoms may increase your odds of finding cancer early, when it’s most treatable.

Below are gynecologic cancer symptoms that every woman should be on the lookout for.

Abnormal vaginal bleeding: More than 90% of women diagnosed with endometrial cancer experience irregular bleeding. If you have already undergone menopause, any bleeding — spotting included — should be evaluated. Haven’t gone through menopause yet? See your doctor if you experience bleeding between periods, heavy bleeding or bleeding during sex.
Unexplained weight loss: If you’re overweight or obese, losing weight by exercising and making healthier food choices can actually help curb your cancer risks. But if you suddenly lose more than 10 pounds without changing your diet or exercise habits, talk to your doctor.
Vaginal discharge colored with blood: Bloody, dark or smelly discharge is usually a sign of infection. But sometimes, it’s a sign of cervical or endometrial cancer.
Constant fatigue.:A busy week can wear anyone out. But in most cases, a little rest should cure your fatigue. If fatigue is interfering with your work or leisure activities, stop blaming your hectic life and see your doctor.
Swollen leg: Does one of your legs look or feel swollen for no apparent reason? This may be a sign of cervical cancer. Typically, though, a swollen leg isn’t a sign of cancer unless you also have pain, discharge or other cervical cancer symptoms.
Loss of appetite or feeling full all the time: Never hungry anymore? Or constantly feeling full? These appetite changes may be symptoms of ovarian cancer.
Pain in the pelvis or abdominal area: Ongoing abdominal pain or discomfort — including gas, indigestion, pressure, bloating and cramps — can signal ovarian cancer. And, constant pelvic pain or pressure can be a sign of endometrial cancer.
A bloated belly: It’s common to feel bloated after eating or drinking a lot, especially during your menstrual cycle. But if you feel bloated for more than two weeks or after your period ends, this could be a sign of ovarian cancer.
Constantly needing bathroom breaks: Suddenly need to use the bathroom all the time or feel constant pressure on your bladder? Unless you’ve started drinking more liquids or you’re pregnant, this may be a sign of cancer. Take note if you also feel full, have abdominal pain and experience bloating.
Persistent indigestion or nausea: Occasionally, persistent indigestion or nausea can signal gynecologic cancers. Play it safe, and see your doctor if you feel queasy more often than usual.

Remember, having one or more of these symptoms doesn’t mean you have cancer. But if they last two weeks or longer, see your doctor to get yourself checked out. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Types of Gynecologic Cancer

Cervical Cancer Ovarian CancerUterine CancerVaginal CancerVulvar Cancer

Cervical cancer is the only gynecologic cancer that has screening tests. When detected early, treatment is usually successful.

There are usually no symptoms or signs of early cervical cancer. The best ways to detect early stages of cervical cancer are regular pelvic exams and Pap tests.

Some protective measures may reduce your risk of developing cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer is the only gynecologic cancer that has screening tests. When detected early, treatment is usually successful. There are usually no symptoms or signs of early cervical cancer. The best ways to detect early stages of cervical cancer are regular pelvic exams and Pap tests. Some protective measures may reduce your risk of developing cervical cancer.

Ovarian Cancer affects the ovaries — and in some cases the fallopian tubes. The ovaries and fallopian tubes are a part of a woman’s reproductive organs which produce steroid hormones as well as eggs, called ova. Ovarian cancer usually occurs after menopause. In fact, 50% of ovarian tumors occur in women aged 40 to 60 and 40% over age 60. Fallopian tube cancer is one of the rarest of cancers, making up 1% of all gynecologic cancers.

Endometrial / Uterine Cancer is a cancer that starts in the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus (womb). Nearly all cancers of the uterus start in the endometrium and are called endometrial carcinomas. Cancers can also start in the muscle layer or supporting connective tissue of the uterus. These cancers belong to the group of cancers called sarcomas. Types of uterine sarcoma: Endometrial stromal sarcoma, undifferentiated sarcomas and uterine leiomyosarcomas.

Vaginal cancer is one of the rarest forms of gynecologic cancers usually affecting women between 50 to 70-years-old. Due to the fact that vaginal cancers are often associated with HPV, vaginal cancer can be prevented by vaccinating women and young girls before they are sexually active.

Vulvar cancer is a rare, abnormal growth on the external female genitalia, typically occurring in elderly women. Fortunately, vulvar cancer is very curable when it is detected at an early stage. Treatment can, however, have substantial adverse effects on a patients’ sexual function, bladder and rectal function, as well as their body image.