Every six minutes, a woman in the United States is diagnosed with genital or gynecologic cancer. At Wellness Oncology & Hematology, with offices in West Hills and Tarzana, California, the expert oncologists diagnose and treat ovarian, uterine, vaginal, and cervical cancers. Call Wellness Oncology & Hematology or make an appointment online today for specialized genital cancer care.
Genital or gynecologic cancers occur when you have abnormal and uncontrolled cell growth in your reproductive organs. The several types of female genital cancers include:
Your risk of genital cancer increases if you have a personal or family history of genital cancer. Your risk also increases as you age. A history of human papillomavirus (HPV) can also increase your chances of gynecologic cancers. Other risk factors include smoking, obesity, and excessive alcohol consumption.
In most cases, genital cancers don’t cause symptoms in their early stages. Routine cancer screenings like Pap smears and pelvic exams are the best way to detect cancer before it worsens or spreads. Some genital cancer symptoms include:
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact Wellness Oncology & Hematology to schedule a diagnostic appointment.
The oncologists at Wellness Oncology & Hematology use a variety of tests to identify genital cancers. If you have an abnormal Pap smear, the doctors will need to do an additional Pap smear or biopsy your cervix for further testing. They also use X-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs, and/or CT scans to examine your reproductive organs.
Your doctor could also use hysteroscopy to examine your cervix, uterus, and fallopian tubes for signs of abnormality. Your doctor inserts a hysteroscope through your cervix into your uterus. The device is a thin, lighted tube and a magnifying lens that allows your doctor to examine the inside of your uterus.
The oncology team at Wellness Oncology & Hematology provide customized treatment of genital cancers. Your treatment can include:
Most surgical procedures remove the cancerous cells or tumor. However, in severe circumstances, your oncologist might need to do a full hysterectomy to remove your uterus, cervix, ovaries, and fallopian tubes.
If you’re concerned about genital cancers, call Wellness Oncology & Hematology or make an appointment online today.
