Gynecologic Cancer
Gynecologic Oncology
Cancers that involve a woman’s reproductive organs are grouped under the umbrella of gynecological cancer. Related cancers and conditions treated by our oncologists at Bassett Healthcare Network include:
- Cervical cancer, found in the cells of the cervix, which is located in the lower part of the uterus
- Ovarian cancer, located in the ovaries, the glands where a woman’s eggs are stored
- Cancer of the fallopian tubes, the narrow passages connecting the ovaries to the uterus
- Uterine cancer, situated in the uterus, the organ in which the fetus develops
- Cancer of the vagina, the tube connecting the uterus with outer genitals
- Vulvar cancer, which forms on the outer surface of female genitalia
- Gestational trophoblastic disease, rare (and usually non-cancerous) growths inside the uterus
- Peritoneal cancer, a rare cancer in the peritoneum, the thin layer of tissue that lines the abdomen and covers the uterus, bladder, and rectum
Gynecological Cancer Symptoms & Risk Factors
Experts have not pinpointed the causes of gynecological cancer, but the following risk factors exist:
- Excess exposure to estrogen is linked to uterine cancer
- Family history of specific gynecological cancers
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a risk factor for some gynecological cancers, including cervical cancer
Symptoms vary with gynecological cancer types and the organs affected. They can include unusual vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, back pain, bloating, and changes in bowel movements or urination. Skin itching or burning, or vulva color changes, can also be signs of vulvar cancer.
Gynecologic Cancer Treatment
Treatment plans at Bassett Healthcare Network depend on the type and stage of the cancer, but in many instances will involve conventional approaches to cancer care, such as:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy and brachytherapy (internal radiation)
- Hormone therapy to lower levels of cancer-abetting hormones in your body
- Surgery to remove the tumor
- Targeted therapy to destroy specific cancerous cells
Get Treatment for Your Gynecological Cancer
If you have symptoms of cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, vulvar, or other female cancers, talk to your primary care practitioner or gynecologist to be referred for a cancer screening. Call 1-800-BASSETT to learn more about our gynecologic oncology services.
Bassett Healthcare Network offers treatment for gynecological cancers in Central New York, including our hospitals in Oneonta, Cobleskill, Cooperstown, Delhi, Herkimer, and Little Falls.
