Gynecologic Oncology & Surgery Center
Gynecologic Cancers Screening
Gynecologic cancer is any cancer that starts in a woman's reproductive organs. Cancer is always named for the part of the body where it starts. The five gynecologic cancers are cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar.
Each gynecologic cancer is unique, with different signs and symptoms, different risk factors (things that may increase your chance of getting a disease), and different prevention strategies. When gynecologic cancers are found early, treatment is most effective.
Cervical cancer has a screening test (the Pap test) that can find this cancer early, when treatment can be most effective. The Pap test can also prevent cervical cancer by finding pre-cancers, cell changes on the cervix that might become cervical cancer if they are not treated appropriately. In addition to the Pap test, which is the main test for cervical cancer, there is a test that looks for Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). It may be used for screening women aged 30 years and older, or at any age for women who have unclear Pap test results.
There is no simple and reliable way to test for the other gynecologic cancers in women who do not have any signs or symptoms. That is why it is important to know about the cancers, recognize warning signs, and learn what you can do to reduce your risk. Talk with your doctor if you believe that you are at increased risk for gynecologic cancer and ask what you might do to lower your risk.
Gynecologic cancer is treated by a gynecologic oncologist - a doctor who has been trained to treat cancers of a woman's reproductive system. Advanced surgical care, chemotherapy and radiation therapy in conjunction with the radiation oncologists are all managed by our team trained in the most advanced care the gynecologic oncology patient.
Gynecologic Oncology
There is no more difficult time in a woman's life than when confronted with the diagnosis or potential diagnosis of a malignancy. Faced with the challenge of cancer, our patients have the comfort of knowing that they will not be alone through this ordeal, but will be accompanied throughout by a team of highly trained and skilled specialists. We are committed to the philosophy that we provide complete care and medical management for our patients.
Cancer care must always start with regular screening and prevention education in order to detect the problem in its earliest stages when therapy is most effective. When the diagnosis is made, cutting edge multi-modality therapy is tailored specifically to the needs of each patient. Advanced surgical care, chemotherapy and radiation therapy in conjunction with the radiation oncologists are all managed by our team trained in the most advanced care for the gynecologic oncology patient.
There are several ways to treat gynecologic cancer. The treatment depends on the type of cancer and how far it has spread. Treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. People with cancer often get more than one kind of treatment.
Fibroids Treatment
Fibroids, also known as myoma, are tumors that grow in the uterine walls. They are usually benign but can range in size and quantity and may lead to certain symptoms and complications depending on these factors. Uterine fibroids are most common in women in their 40s and early 50s.
The cause of fibroids is unknown, but they may be affected by hormones and genetics. Women with a family history of fibroids, as well as those who are obese or eat a lot of red meat, may be at an increased risk for developing fibroids. Because the origin is not specifically known, doctors also do not know what causes certain fibroids to grow or shrink, although certain medications or life events (such as pregnancy and menopause) can affect fibroid size.
In many cases, women do not experience symptoms from fibroids. In these patients, fibroids are often detected during a regular pelvic exam and confirmed through an imaging exam. Treatment may not be necessary for these cases. Other women may experience:
- Heaving bleeding
- Feeling of fullness
- Enlargement of abdomen
- Lower back pain
- Pain during sex
- Frequent urination
Most fibroids do not turn into cancer, but can lead to pregnancy complications. It is important for women to seek proper medical attention from an experienced doctor in order to determine the treatment necessary for each individual case of fibroids.
Treatment for these cases may include medication to relieve symptoms, or surgery for more severe cases. Surgeries can include a myomectomy to remove the fibroids or a hysterectomy to remove the uterus. Minimally invasive procedures such as laparoscopy and hysteroscopy can also be performed, during which a long, thin scope is inserted through the abdomen or vagina to view the area and carefully remove fibroids.
Other treatment options are also available to keep symptoms at a minimum and preserve your overall health. Your doctor will determine which treatment is most appropriate for you based on a thorough evaluation of your individual condition.
