Gynecologic Cancer Symptoms & Diagnosis

The diseases treated in the Gynecologic Cancer Program include:

• Cervical cancer
• Ovarian cancers, including fallopian tubes and primary peritoneal cancer
• Vaginal and vulvar cancer
• Uterine cancer (endometrial cancer)
• Gestational trophoblastic disease, including choriocarcinoma and placental site trophoblastic tumors

Symptoms & Diagnosis of Gynecologic Cancers

Gynecologic cancers can strike women of any age. The symptoms of gynecologic cancers may include abnormal bleeding, abdominal bloating, pain during intercourse and changes in bowel and bladder habits. Vaginal and vulvar cancer may also produce a lump, growth or skin change in the affected area.

In most cases, an annual gynecological exam combined with a PAP test can identify signs of vulvar, vaginal and cervical cancers at an early stage. Other cancers are harder to detect. Occasionally, a pelvic exam may reveal signs of ovarian cancer, though many women present with vague symptoms such as abdominal or back pain, constipation, fatigue, an upset stomach and bloating.

Imaging studies, such as a computed tomography (CT) scan or ultrasound, and blood work may be used to identify suspected ovarian cancer. Most gynecologic cancers are diagnosed through a surgical biopsy.