When thinking of types of cancer that affect women, breast cancer is usually at the top of the list. However, it's not the only cancer that affects women. It’s important also to be aware of gynecologic cancers that are related to the female reproductive system. There are several types of gynecological cancers. Four common ones women should know about are endometrial (uterine) cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, and uterine sarcoma.
Women should become familiar with these cancers, including the warning signs of each one. Detecting and diagnosing cancer early makes it easier to treat.
Endometrial cancer is the most common type of uterine cancer, affecting the tissue lining the uterus, called the endometrium. Some risk factors, such as age and obesity, are similar to those for ovarian cancer. However, there are some risk factors unique to endometrial cancer:
There are several symptoms of endometrial cancer, with the most common being abnormal vaginal bleeding. Other signs to be aware of include:
Surgery to remove the uterus, called a hysterectomy, is a standard treatment for this type of cancer. Additional treatments may also be given depending on the stage of cancer and the patient’s situation. These treatments include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, and/or targeted therapy.
Ovarian cancer starts in the ovaries, and it is the second most common type of gynecologic cancer after uterine cancer. Common risk factors for ovarian cancer include:
There are no screening tests specifically for ovarian cancer. As a result, patients are often diagnosed with ovarian cancer at a later stage. Be on the lookout for symptoms of ovarian cancer, such as:
Tell your doctor if you're experiencing any of these symptoms. While they do not necessarily mean you have cancer, it’s important to look into the cause. Surgery to remove the ovaries is the most common treatment for ovarian cancer. Additional treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and hormone therapy may also be needed. The gynecologic oncologist will consider the patient’s health, the stage of cancer, and the tumor size when determining the right treatment plan.
Cervical cancer starts in the cells of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus. The primary cause of cervical cancer is HPV infection.
There are two main types of cervical cancer: squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Squamous cell carcinoma accounts for about 90% of all cervical cancers. It begins in the cells of the outer part of the cervix (called the ectocervix) that leads to the vagina. Adenocarcinoma, on the other hand, starts in the glandular cells located in the opening of the cervix (called the endocervix).
Some signs of cervical cancer include:
Many women avoid experiencing symptoms of cervical cancer thanks to Pap screening tests. A Pap test is part of the annual gynecologic exam. Your gynecologist usually performs an HPV test at the same time as the Pap test, to check for an active HPV infection. This is because some strains of HPV infections are the known cause of cervical cancer. If you’re positive for HPV, you need to be sure you stay on top of screening tests and report any symptoms as soon as possible to your doctor so they can look into the cause.
Related blog: Understanding the Connection Between HPV and Cervical Cancer
Treatments for cervical cancer are similar to other types of gynecologic cancers, with surgery being one of the most common first steps. For cervical cancer, a hysterectomy is often used to remove the uterus and cervix. After surgery, additional therapies are often used to ensure all cancer cells are destroyed.
Uterine sarcoma is a type of uterine cancer, but it is less common than endometrial cancer. It develops in the muscles that support the tissues of the uterus.
Risk factors for uterine sarcoma include:
Here are some signs of uterine sarcoma:
Treatment for uterine sarcoma typically starts with surgery to remove the uterus, fallopian tubes, and sometimes the ovaries as well. Removing the ovaries depends on whether the patient is post-menopause. Depending on the stage, additional therapies may be necessary. Stage II - Stage IV uterine sarcoma is usually treated with chemotherapy after surgery. Radiation therapy may also be used if the cancer is localized. These treatments are used to ensure all cancer cells are destroyed.
If you are experiencing symptoms and your doctor suspects you may have gynecological cancer, several tests can be run.
If cancer is found, you will need to visit a gynecologic oncologist. These specialists have the training and experience to create the right treatment plan for you.
Related blog: Signs and Symptoms of Gynecologic Cancer You Shouldn’t Ignore
Knowing what’s normal for your body can help detect gynecologic cancers as early as possible. Plus, the Pap test for cervical cancer is a well-established tool for screening and identifying cervical cancers as they develop. Early detection increases the likelihood of successful treatment.
If you or a loved one has recently received a diagnosis of gynecologic cancer, the gynecologic oncologists at New York Oncology Hematology are here to help. We will create a personalized treatment plan for you. Find a location in the Capital District and request a consultation. We have locations throughout Albany, Troy, Amsterdam, Clifton Park, and Hudson, New York.