September is Gynecological Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the various types of gynecological cancers. Although each cancer is different, they all have one thing in common: the importance of early detection. This month serves as a reminder for all women to prioritize their health by learning the warning signs and symptoms of gynecological cancers and attending their annual check ups.
To help educate women and keep them informed, Dr. Renee Cowan, a gynecologic oncologist at Woman’s Hospital, answers the most frequently asked questions about gynecological cancers.
What is gynecologic cancer? How many kinds of gynecologic cancer are there?
Gynecologic cancer is a group of cancers that affect a woman’s reproductive system. The five types of gynecologic cancers include:
- Ovarian/tubal cancer begins in the ovaries and/or fallopian tubes, which are the reproductive glands on each side of the uterus.
- Cervical cancer starts in the cervix, which is the opening to the uterus.
- Uterine/Endometrial cancer, which can stem from the muscle layer or lining of the uterus/womb.
- Vulvar cancer occurs on the vulva, which is the external part of the female genitals also known as labia.
- Vaginal cancer starts within the vaginal canal itself.
How common is gynecologic cancer in the U.S.?
According to the American Cancer Society, more than 110,000 women in the U.S. are diagnosed with gynecologic cancers each year.
What are the signs and symptoms of gynecologic cancer?
Although not all women with gynecologic cancer will have the same symptoms, the most common ones include:
- Abdominal or back pain
- Bloating or swelling in your stomach
- Feeling full quickly or having trouble eating
- Changes in bathroom habits (like going more often or feeling constipated)
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Unusual bleeding or discharge, especially after menopause
- Bleeding in between periods or after intercourse
- Excessive or heavy periods
- Vaginal itching, burning, or skin changes
If you have unusual or severe vaginal bleeding or notice that your symptoms last more than two weeks, see your doctor right away.
What are the risk factors of gynecologic cancer?
The risk of developing gynecologic cancer increases with age. Each of the five cancers has different risk factors. Some risk factors that all women should be aware of include:
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Smoking or using tobacco
- Being overweight or obese
- Eating a diet lacking in proper nutrition
- A compromised immune system (HIV, history of transplant, chronic use of immunosuppressive medication)
- Being exposed to diethylstilbestrol (DES), a synthetic estrogen given during pregnancy to prevent miscarriage (prior to 1970)
- Family history of ovary, uterine, colon, or premenopausal breast cancer
- Certain genetic mutations
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Irregular periods
- Improper hormonal therapy use
Although risk factors and symptoms can vary, one thing remains consistent: treatment is most effective when the gynecologic cancers are found early.
Is there anything I can do to help decrease my chances of getting gynecologic cancer?
There are several ways you can reduce your risk of gynecologic cancers. These include:
- Getting the HPV vaccine
- Quitting tobacco use
- Eating a balanced diet
- Exercising regularly
- Getting risk-reducing surgery if you have a specific genetic mutation
- Getting regular screenings with your Gyn provider
Is it normal to bleed after menopause or between cycles?
If you’ve been through menopause and still have spotting, periods or vaginal bleeding, that’s not normal. Contact your doctor right away.
Do I need to continue yearly screenings if I’ve had a hysterectomy?
If you had a total hysterectomy as treatment for cervical cancer or you have had a hysterectomy without removal of the cervix then you should continue screening. Women who have had a total hysterectomy no longer need a pap screening, but they still need a pelvic exam every year and will still need to see their gynecologist annually.
Why do I need a pap test?
A pap smear, also known as a pap test, checks for cervical cancer. It does this by checking the cells on the cervix to see if they have the potential to turn cancerous. This early detection can make all the difference in survival.
Pap tests start at age 21. Your doctor can counsel you on how often they should be performed depending on your specific circumstances.
Is it normal to have new bumps, spots, or lesions on my vulva?
You should be familiar with your body. If you notice new changes, lesions, bumps, or irritation that does not go away within one to two weeks, you should ask your doctor to examine and possibly biopsy this area.
In closing, awareness is the first step toward prevention; staying proactive with your yearly exams can help catch changes early before they become bigger concerns. Find an OB/GYN and schedule your annual appointment today.