Gynecological Cancer

Gynecological cancer is cancer that begins anywhere in a woman’s reproductive system. Cancer is a disease that results from cellular mutations that cause cells to grow and multiply uncontrollably.

The five main types:

• Cervical cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Uterine cancer
• Vaginal cancer
• Vulvar cancer

This cancer can happen to any woman, but your risk increases with age. Treatment is most effective when there’s an early diagnosis. Getting regular gynecological exams and Pap tests are crucial.

Depending on which type of cancer it is, the symptoms may include:

• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Bloating
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge
• Abdominal pain or back pain
• Changes in urination or bowel movements
• Itching, burning, or tenderness of the vulva

Call your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms. They may be due to cancer or another condition that requires treatment.

There are several treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Most patients receive a combination of treatments.

At CenterPoint Radiation Oncology, Dr. Morrell works closely with a team of specialists, such as gynecologic oncologists and surgeons, to ensure optimal treatment.

Radiation therapy uses high-powered energy beams like X-rays or protons to kill cancer cells. A combination of radiation therapy and chemotherapy may be the primary treatment for your gynecological cancer. Or, you may receive radiation therapy after surgery to reduce the risk of the cancer returning.

Depending on your needs, Dr. Morrell may deliver radiation therapy externally or internally. External beam radiation therapy uses a machine to deliver radiation energy to a specific part of your body. Internal radiation, also called brachytherapy, involves placing a device containing radioactive material inside your body.

High-dose-rate brachytherapy is an outpatient procedure that takes 20 minutes or less, while low-dose-rate brachytherapy can take several hours or days. Dr. Morrell often uses high-dose-rate brachytherapy to treat cervical and uterine cancers.

To learn more about your treatment options, please call CenterPoint Radiation Oncology, or book an appointment online today.