Gynecological Cancer

Gynaecological Cancer Treatment in Alwarpet, Chennai

One of the most sensitive and vital parts of a woman’s body is the reproductive system. Gynecological cancer is when cells originate and multiply uncontrollably in a woman’s reproductive organs.

The six common gynecological cancers are ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, vaginal cancer, endometrial cancer (a type of uterine cancer), and vulvar cancer.

You may think that you are not on its radar, but any woman is at risk, regardless of which age group she belongs to or whether it is there in her family history.

What are the Symptoms of Gynecological Cancers?

The signs and symptoms of cancer, especially gynecological cancers, are ambiguous because these may be similar to other health conditions.

The symptoms that you must look out for include:

• Ovarian cancer
  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding
  • Loss of appetite
  • Feeling bloated in the lower abdomen
  • Nausea
  • Indigestion
  • Frequent urination
• Cervical cancer
  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding (not related to menstrual bleeding)
  • Heavy bleeding or periods continuing for a longer time than usual
  • Pain and bleeding during sexual intercourse
  • Post-menopausal bleeding
• Vaginal cancer
  • Pain in the pelvic area
  • Discomfort while urinating
  • Abnormal bleeding
  • Constipation
  • A lump that you can feel
  • Pain during sexual intercourse
• Endometrial cancer
  • Abnormal bleeding 
  • Pain during sexual intercourse
  • A mass in the pelvic area
  • Pain while urination
  • Post-menopausal bleeding
• Vulvar cancer
  • Change in the color of your vulva
  • Persistent itching
  • A mass or sore
  • Palpable nodule
  • Discharge or bleeding not associated with menstruation

Apart from these, you may experience persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and changes in your breasts, especially in the case of breast cancer.

What Causes Gynecological Cancer?

The causes of gynecological cancers can differ since they affect different parts of the reproductive system.

• Genetics: One of the primary causes is family history. For example:
  • Mutations in genes BRCA1 and BRCA2 can make you susceptible to ovarian cancer. Your previous generation may pass these genes to you.
  • Lynch syndrome is a hereditary cancer syndrome, which increases your risk of colon, ovarian, and endometrial cancers.
• Age: Your risk of developing such cancers is higher if you are above 50 years.
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection: It is a sexually transmitted disease having a deep connection with gynecological cancers, including cervical, vulvar, and vaginal cancers.
• Obesity: Obesity can augment your risk of getting endometrial cancer. It is because obesity causes chronic inflammation and increases estrogen production, which affects the endometrium (lining of the uterus).

When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

Identifying the symptoms and seeking timely medical advice is the key. You may find it tricky to spot the signs and symptoms. But, if you experience any of the above symptoms, bring them to your physician’s attention without any delay.

Whether you are experiencing the symptoms due to cancer or any other health condition, allow your doctor to find the root cause.

Previously, gynecological cancers were known as ‘silent’ cancers, which are difficult to diagnose. But today, with modern diagnostic methods, early detection is possible, and most gynecological cancers are preventable.

Request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Alwarpet, Chennai

Call 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment.

What are the Treatment Choices Available?

Before finalizing the treatment, oncologists perform a detailed evaluation. It includes ultrasound, lab tests, pelvic examination, and other tests to identify the type and exact stage of cancer.

The treatment options include the following:

• Chemotherapy
  • Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC)
• Radiation Therapy
  • Radiation therapy, such as HDR brachytherapy and TomoTherapy
• Surgeries like minimally invasive, robotic, and reconstruction surgeries
  • Total hysterectomy
  • Radical hysterectomy
  • Unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy
  • Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy
  • Omentectomy
• Chemoembolization
• Immunotherapy
• Molecular targeted therapy
• Hormone therapy
• Hi-Art® treatment

Conclusion

Healthy lifestyle choices like a wholesome diet, avoiding smoking, safe sex, and regular exercise lower your risks of gynecological cancers. However, if you notice any of the symptoms, which make you feel you are at risk, connect with your doctor immediately.

References

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/if-you-feel-something-say-something-preventing-and-detecting-gynecologic-cancers

https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/physical-side-effects.html

https://bgcs.org.uk/public-information/questions-answers/