Gynecologic Cancer
Gynecologic cancer is any cancer that begins in a woman’s reproductive organs. Each gynecologic cancer is unique with different signs, symptoms, risk factors, and prevention strategies. All women are at risk for gynecologic cancers, and risk can increase with age. When they are found early gynecologic cancers are found early treatment is most effective.
Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer occurs in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Cervical cancer begins when healthy cells in the cervix develop mutations in their DNA. Various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) play a role in causing some cervical cancer. You can reduce your risk of developing cervical cancer by having screening tests and receiving the HPV vaccine.
Some symptoms of cervical cancer include:
- Vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between periods or after menopause
- Watery, bloody vaginal discharge that may be heavy and have a foul odor
- Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse
Some risk factors of cervical cancer include:
- Many sexual partners
- Early sexual activity
- Other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is a growth of cells that forms in the ovaries, or small glands located on either side of the woman’s uterus. The cells multiply at a rapid rate and can invade and destroy healthy body tissue. Ovarian cancer treatment usually involves surgery as well as chemotherapy.
Some symptoms of ovarian cancer include:
- Abdominal bloating or swelling
- Quickly feeling full when eating
- Weight loss
- Discomfort in the pelvic area
- Fatigue
- Back pain
- Changes in bowel habits (such as constipation)
- A frequent need to urinate
Some risk factors of ovarian cancer include:
- Older age
- Never having been pregnant
- Family history of ovarian cancer
- Being overweight or obese
- Endometriosis
Uterine (Endometrium) Cancer
Endometrial cancer begins in the uterus in the layer of cells that form in the lining (endometrium) of the uterus. Mutations take place in the DNA of cells in the endometrium, which turns normal, healthy cells into abnormal cells. The accumulating abnormal cells form a mass, and cancer cells invade nearby tissues and can even spread elsewhere in the body. Other types of cancer can form in the uterus, including uterine sarcoma, however they are much less common than endometrial cancer.
Some symptoms of endometrial cancer include:
- Vaginal bleeding after menopause
- Bleeding between periods
- Pelvic pain
- Changes in the balance of female hormones in the body
Some risk factors of endometrial cancer include:
- Never having been pregnant
- Older age
- Obesity
- Hormone therapy for breast cancer
- Inherited colon cancer syndrome