Gynecologic Cancer
All women are at risk of gynecological cancers, and the risk increases as you get older. The good news is that women’s reproductive cancers can usually be detected during annual wellness checks by a gynecologist. It is important that women report all changes in their reproductive organs to their doctor.
If you have noticed something suspicious or had changes in your gynecological health, visit your primary doctor or one of Riverside Healthcare’s skilled gynecologists throughout the region. We’ll perform a thorough check-up and recommend any additional screenings, if needed.
To request an appointment with specialist close to home, call (815) 933-9660. You can also find a gynecologist or oncologist anytime online.
About Gynecological Cancer
There are cancers that are specific to the female reproductive system. These include, but are not limited to:
- Cervical cancer starts in the cervix: the lower part of the uterus. It has two parts and is covered in two different types of cells; cancer begins when these cells mutate and grow out of control. Changes in the cells can be detected by an annual Pap test and treated before they form cancerous tumors.
- Uterine cancer is rare and occurs in the muscle and supporting tissue of the uterus. It can sometimes be detected by an annual Pap test, but is usually diagnosed after surgery has been performed to remove what is thought to be benign tumors on the uterus.
- Ovarian cancer can grow in either or both ovaries, which produce eggs which travel through the fallopian tubes in the uterus. It ranks fifth in cancer deaths for women, but diagnoses have been steadily falling for 20 years. Half of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer are over the age of 63.
General Symptoms of Gynecological Cancer
Cervical, uterine and ovarian cancer have specific symptoms that are unique, but some common signs include:
- Abnormal bleeding and spotting, outside of normal menstruation
- Pelvic pain, especially if it is accompanied by a feeling of fullness in the belly of pelvis
- Unusual vaginal discharge that contains blood and occurs between periods or after menopause
- Pain during normal sexual activity
- Abdominal bloating, extreme changes in weight and/or loss of appetite
- Urinary symptoms like urgency or frequency could indicate an infection or something more severe.
If you have noticed something suspicious or had changes in your gynecological health, visit your primary doctor or one of our skilled gynecologists. We’ll perform a thorough check-up and recommend any additional screenings,if needed.
Prevention
Whether you have a family history of gynecological cancer, or just want to stay proactive, Riverside offers the preventive services you need for your peace of mind. Our Cancer Screening and Risk Assessment program offers personalized genetic counseling to address any hereditary concerns. If needed, your counselor can also coordinate genetic testing, walk through the results with you and help plan for any next steps.
Detection & Diagnosis
The #1 early detection tool for gynecological cancers is the Pap test. It is important that you visit your doctor annually for testing, especially if you have previous history of cysts or benign growths. Your gynecologist will test for common issues but reporting unusual changes will help them determine whether you are at risk of one of these common cancers.
Personalized Treatment Plans
If you find that you have cancer, rest assured you have some of the region’s best experts by your side. Our dedicated team – including board-certified surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists and more specialists – will work closely together and with you to create a personalized treatment plan. That may include minimally invasive da Vinci® robotic surgery for hysterectomy – which often offers significantly less pain, fewer complications and faster recovery than traditional hysterectomy.
Support for Every Step
We’re committed to providing all the education, tools and resources you and your loved ones need to manage a cancer diagnosis. You’ll find a full range of free or low-cost cancer support services, including nutritional, spiritual and financial counseling, rehabilitation, survivorship programs and more to meet your needs.
Meet Our Team
Riverside’s board-certified oncologists specialize in the prevention, early detection and treatment of all types of cancers. Working together and with you, we’ll create a personal plan to wellness.
Meet Our Team
