A Comprehensive Guide To Gynecological Cancers
It is estimated that approximately 10,000 women are diagnosed with gynecological cancer each year in the United States. Family history, age, obesity, and HPV (human papillomavirus) are important risk factors for gynecological cancer.
Gynecologic cancers Gilbert experts offer a comprehensive diagnosis and a wide variety of treatments for cancers that affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other areas of the reproductive tract.
What is gynecological cancer?
A type of cancer that begins in your reproductive system or organs is known as gynecological cancer. Cancer refers to the abnormal growth and proliferation of the cells in any part of your body, leading to debilitating symptoms.
There are different types of gynecological cancers, namely:
- Cervical cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Uterine cancer
- Vulvar cancer
- Vaginal cancer
- Endometrial cancer
- Peritoneal cancer
- Fallopian tube cancer
- Gestation trophoblastic tumor
What are the symptoms that indicate gynecological cancer?
The earlier the cancer is detected the easier it will be treated. In order to get an early diagnosis, it is essential to know the symptoms to seek immediate medical help. The most common and general symptoms of gynecological cancer include:
- Severe abdominal and pelvic pain
- Back pain
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Lower abdominal bloating
- Cramps or excruciating pain in the lower abdomen
- Changes in urine or bowel movements
- Infertility
- Itching, burning, or skin color changes around the vulva
- Abnormal lumps around the vulva
- Pain during sex
- Increased urination
- Diarrhea or constipation
Routine cancer screenings are essential if you have a family history of cancer or other risk factors.
What are the risk factors associated with gynecological cancer?
Anybody can develop gynecological cancer, however, your likelihood of developing it increases due to the following risk factors:
- Family history
- Age
- HPV
- Hormonal changes
- Obesity or being overweight
- Excess alcoholism
- Smoking
- Increased exposure to radiation
- Exposure to environmental toxins like heavy metals
What are the services offered for gynecological cancers?
There are several diagnostic and treatment services offered for gynecological cancers. Early detection is important and helps your doctor design an appropriate treatment plan.
Diagnostic services
- Pelvic exam
- Blood tests
- Diagnostic imaging tests
- PAP smear
- HPV testing
- Colposcopy
Treatment services
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Loop electrosurgical excision procedure ( LEEP)
- Management of postmenopausal bleeding
- Hysterectomy
Bottom line
Gynecological cancers typically develop in your reproductive organs which lead to a cascade of symptoms. These are warning signs that must be known for early detection of cancer, which aid in determining the further course of action.
Thus, regular cancer screenings are essential for early detection and prompt treatment. This greatly improves your quality of life by preventing further complications.