Gynaecologic cancer is the cancer of a woman's reproductive organs. While they are often discussed as a group, each gynaecologic cancer is unique. Each has different signs, symptoms, and risk factors.
Gynaecologic Cancer Types
The five main types of gynaecologic cancer are:
Cervical cancer: Begins in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus (or womb)
Ovarian cancer: Begins in the ovaries, located on each side of the uterus
Uterine cancer: Begins in the uterus, a pear-shaped organ in a woman's pelvis
Vaginal cancer: Begins in the vagina, which is the hollow, tube-like channel between the bottom of the uterus and the outside of body
Vulvar cancer: Begins in the vulva, the outer part of the female genital organ, which includes the inner and outer lips of the vagina, the clitoris, and the opening of the vagina and its glands.
Gynaecologic Cancer Risk Factors
Each specific type of gynaecologic cancer has a unique set of risk factors. The most common include:
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection
Family history of malignancy
Increasing age
Smoking
Alcohol
Obesity
Sedentary lifestyle
Metabolic syndrome
Immunocompromised status
Unsafe sexual practices
Gynaecologic cancer symptoms are:
Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge
Feeling full too quickly or difficulty in eating
Pelvic pain or pressure
Frequent or urgent need to urinate and/or constipation
Changes in vulva color or skin - such as a rash, sores or warts
Gynaecologic Cancer Treatment
Different types and combinations of gynaecological cancer treatment are available. These depend on the type and stage at which it is diagnosed. Possible treatments include:
