Gynecological cancer refers to the five cancers that start in a woman’s reproductive system. These include:
- Cervical cancer
- Endometrial or Uterine cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Vaginal cancer
- Vulval cancer
Symptoms of Gynecological Cancers
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge is common symptom of all gynecologic cancers except vulvar cancer.
- Early satiety, bloating, and abdominal or back pain are common symptoms limited only for ovarian cancer.
- Pelvic pain is common for ovarian and uterine cancers.
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate and/or constipation are common symptoms for ovarian, cervix and vaginal cancers.
- Itching, pain, or tenderness of the vulva, and changes in vulva colour or skin, such as a rash, or warts, are found in vulvar cancer.
What Can I Do to Reduce Risk?
- HPV Vaccine
Cervix, vaginal, and vulvar cancers are caused due to human papillomavirus (HPV), a very common sexually transmitted virus. The HPV vaccine protects against this HPV. HPV vaccination is recommended for girls aged 11 to 12 years, but can be given starting at age 9. HPV vaccine also is recommended for all females till age 26 years. If vaccination is started before age 15, a two-dose
schedule is recommended, with the doses given 6 to 12 months apart. For people who start the series after their 15th birthday, three doses of vaccine are required.
One important which should be considered about HPV vaccination is that it prevents new HPV infections, but does not treat existing infections. This is why the HPV vaccine works best when given before any exposure to HPV.
- Screening
Screening is when an examination or test is used to look for a disease even before there are any symptoms. Diagnostic tests on the other hand are used when a person has symptoms. Cancer screening is effective when it can find disease early, which can lead to a more effective treatment.
- Pap Test
Of all the gynecologic cancers, only cervical cancer has a screening test which is also called as Pap test. The Pap test helps prevent cervical cancer by finding pre cancerous changes on the cervix that might become cervical cancer if not treated appropriately.
- HPV Test
A test called the HPV test looks for HPV infection which is a common cause of cervical cancer. It can be used for screening women aged 30 years and older for cervical cancer.
- Recognise the Warning Signs
Since there is no simple and reliable way to screen for any gynecologic cancers except cervical cancer, it is especially important to recognise warning signs and learn if there are things you can do to reduce your risk.