Gynecology Oncology

 
 Gynaecologic Cancer
 
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:

1. Cervical cancer: Begins in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus (or womb)
2. Ovarian cancer: Begins in the ovaries, located on each side of the uterus
3. Uterine cancer: Begins in the uterus, a pear-shaped organ in a woman's pelvis
4. Vaginal cancer: Begins in the vagina, which is the hollow, tube-like channel between the bottom of the uterus and the outside of body
5. 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
• Bloating
• Abdominal pain or back pain
• Itching, burning, pain or tenderness of the vulva
• 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: