Gynecologic cancer

A woman's body evolves from puberty to menopause -- so when cancer affects your reproductive organs, it feels especially personal.

At The Christ Hospital Health Network, our cancer care team treats gynecologic cancer across all stages of life. Whether you've already reached menopause or you're still young enough to have children, we know you worry about how a cancer diagnosis will affect you and your family.

When we create your treatment plan, we carefully consider which options are right for you. We are sensitive to how treatments may affect your fertility, sexual health or menopausal symptoms, and to what changes can be made without compromising the effectiveness of treatment.

About gynecologic cancer

"Gynecologic cancer" is a term that describes several types of cancer that originate within a woman's reproductive system. These include:

• Cervical cancer—cancer that begins in the cells lining your cervix (the narrow, bottom part of the uterus).

• Fallopian tube cancer (tubal cancer)—cancer that begins in one or both of your fallopian tubes. The fallopian tubes carry eggs from your ovaries to your uterus.

• Ovarian cancer—cancer that begins in one or both of your ovaries. Your ovaries produce eggs and the female hormones estrogen and progesterone.

• Vaginal cancer—cancer that begins in your vagina (birth canal).

• Vulvar cancer—cancer that begins in your vulva. This is the outer, visible part of the female genitals, including the vaginal lips.

• Uterine cancer—cancer that begins in the uterus (womb). The uterus is the pear-shaped organ where babies grow during pregnancy. Uterine cancer is sometimes referred to as endometrial cancer.

All women are at risk for gynecologic cancer, and your risk increases with age. Women infected with certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) are also at an increased risk, especially for cervical, vaginal and vulvar cancers.

The good news is that all gynecologic cancer can be treated and frequently cured — especially if it's caught early. That's why it's important to have routine screening exams for cervical cancer. You should also talk to your doctor as soon as you notice unusual symptoms, especially abnormal vaginal bleeding.

Why choose The Christ Hospital Health Network

If you have gynecologic cancer, you want care from experts who focus specifically on your cancer, and will treat your cancer using the latest evidence combined with the compassion to understand how these cancer treatments will profoundly impact your life. 

At The Christ Hospital Health Network, we partner with women as their health needs change through each decade of life. And when your health needs require cancer treatment, we mobilize our gynecologic cancer care team. Together we'll get you back to good health as quickly and effectively as possible.

• We enjoy a national reputation for providing high-quality women's healthcare. We're named by U.S.News & World Report as one of the top 50 hospitals in the country for gynecology.

• Nationally and internationally regarded gynecologic oncologists (gynecologic cancer sub-specialists)

• Leading edge surgical expertise, including a complete range of laparoscopic and robotic approaches

• The most current, evidence-based approach to chemotherapy specific to your cancer

• Exceptional, experienced nursing and support staff

• Access to fertility preservation services

• Expertise in hereditary cancers and access to genetic testing and counseling
  

• Access to the latest clinical trials 

We also offer valuable support services, including nutrition consultations, integrative medicine programs, financial counseling and referrals to support groups.

Learn how gynecologic cancers are diagnosed and treated at The Christ Hospital Health Network.