About
Gynecological Cancers affect the female reproductive system including the cervix, endometrium, ovary, vagina, vulva, and uterus. Screening tests like Pap smears and pelvic exams are important and should be done timely to reduce the risk of these cancers. There are different types of Gynaecological Cancers, namely;
Cervical cancer – Affects the cervix
Ovarian cancer – Affects one or both of the ovaries
Uterine cancer – Affects the uterus
Vaginal cancer – Affects the vagina
Vulval cancer – Affects the vulva (outer part of the female genitalia)
Symptoms
Each type of gynecological cancer may show different symptoms, but the common ones are:
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Difficulty in eating food
- Feeling too full quickly
- Pain and pressure in the pelvis
- Increased urge to urinate
- Pain in the back and abdomen
- Bloating
- Skin changes on the vulva
Causes
- HPV Infection
- Inherited genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations
- Hormonal Factors
- Reproductive History
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Chronic Inflammatory Conditions
- Environmental and Lifestyle Factors
Diagnosis
Diagnosing gynecological cancers involves a variety of methods and procedures. The specific diagnostic approach depends on the type of cancer that is suspected and may include the following:
- Clinical Evaluation
- Imaging Studies
- Biopsy
- Laboratory Tests
Treatment
- Surgical removal of the tumor
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Targeted therapy
- Hormone therapy
- Immunotherapy
