Gynecologic cancer

You have greater odds of developing gynecological cancer if you:

• Are 50 years old or older
• Are obese
• Don't have regular Pap screenings
• First had intercourse before the age of 16
• Have a family history of gynecological cancers
• Have a history of abnormal Pap smears
• Have had multiple sexual partners
• Have human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
• Have human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Have hypertension, diabetes, chronic vulvar irritation or late menopause
• Have never been pregnant or have had infertility problems
• Use the medication tamoxifen or use unopposed estrogen
• Use tobacco

To properly assess your risk for gynecological cancer, you should speak with your gynecologist or primary doctor.

Although you may not show early signs of gynecological cancer, progressive symptoms might include:

• Abdominal bloating, gas, indigestion, nausea or vomiting
• Abnormal bleeding, especially between periods or after menopause
• Abnormal discharge that is heavy, clear, white or tinged with blood
• Changes in vulva's color or skin, including rash, sores, warts or ulcers
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Feeling tired all the time
• Frequent, difficult, urgent or painful urination
• Heavy or irregular periods
• Loss of appetite
• Pain during intercourse or vaginal bleeding after intercourse
• Pain in the back or stomach
• Pain, swelling, pressure or feeling heavy in the abdomen or pelvis
• Quickly feeling full when eating
• Severe itching or burning of the vulva
• Shortness of breath
• Unexplained weight loss
• Vaginal discharge with an unusual odor
• Vaginal or abdominal lump or mass

Early detection is the key to effectively treating gynecological cancer. Screening for it typically begins with an annual pelvic exam at your doctor's office. During this exam, your doctor may complete a Pap smear and HPV test.

Discussing abdominal pain or urinary issues with your physician can help them determine if additional screening tests are needed.

Whatever your course of cancer treatment involves, our gynecological oncologists are here to assist you. They will work to develop a personalized care plan based on your unique needs. It will likely include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery or a combination of methods.

Gynecological cancer surgery

When you need surgery, our gynecological surgeons will use minimally invasive surgical techniques whenever possible. Compared to traditional surgery, our advanced approach offers you possible benefits, such as:

• Less pain
• Quicker recovery
• Reduced scarring
• Shorter hospital stay
• Smaller incisions

HCA Healthcare Sarah Cannon Cancer Network delivers you exceptional cancer care through cutting-edge, specialized treatments, multidisciplinary collaboration and care that is tailored to you. Our teams of passionate caregivers and global oncology experts across the United States and United Kingdom offer services and expertise that extend across many types of cancer. Together with the full support of HCA Healthcare – a leading provider of cancer care and research – we’re with you and your family from diagnosis through survivorship.