If you are facing gynecologic cancer, you have us to help. A gynecologic oncologist, board certified specialty physicians, surgeons, social workers and an entire care team will work together to create a treatment plan specific to you. This means that you will not only receive the best possible care available today, but also be prepared for future treatments if needed. From diagnosis through post-treatment follow-up, you have us right by your side.
What Is Gynecologic Cancer?
Gynecologic cancer affects reproductive organs within the pelvis of women. The type of cancer is named after the body part where the cancerous cells are present.
Types
There are many types of gynecologic cancer which can affect the female reproductive system. At the Avera Cancer Institute, we treat all types of cancer, including:
- Endometrial (uterine) cancer
- Ovarian, fallopian tube and peritoneal lining cancers
- Cervical, vulvar and vaginal cancers
- Pregnancy-related cancer (molar pregnancies)
Signs and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms vary depending on the type of gynecologic cancer, but may include:
- Itching, burning, tenderness or pain of the vulva
- Changes in color or skin, like a rash, sores or warts
- Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation
- Abdominal bloating or swelling
- Quickly feeling full when eating
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate
- Abnormal bleeding or discharge
- Abdominal or pelvic pain or discomfort
- Menstrual irregularity
- Ovarian cysts
- Weight loss
- Back pain
- Fatigue
Risk Factors
Besides your family medical history, the likelihood of a cancer diagnosis can rise due to other outside forces. These known risk factors include:
- Having human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Early menstruation before the age of 12
- Weakened immune system
- Use of hormone therapy
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Being at an older age
- BRCA gene mutations
- Being a woman
A genetic counselor can work with you to provide guidance on your personal risk factors.
Manage My Risk Request Genetic Counseling
Screening for Gynecologic Cancer
With early detection and expert oncology treatment, there’s hope. A Pap test screening exam can detect HPV and cervical cancer.
- Women ages 21-30 should get a Pap test done every 3 years.
- Women ages 30-65 should get a Pap test and an HPV test done every 5 years.
- Women ages 65+ who have had normal Pap tests for 10 years can stop having them.
See Other Screenings
Treatment Options at Avera Cancer Institute
After a gynecologic cancer diagnosis is determined, there are a variety of treatments based on your specific diagnosis. Turn to Avera Cancer Institute for treating female reproductive cancers. Our board-certified oncologists have the specialty training needed to provide personalized care. Cancer care teams partner with Avera's gynecologic services to provide integrated care, ensuring every need is met for our patients.
