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Gynecologic cancer

Gynecologic cancer is any cancer beginning in a woman's reproductive organs. The main types of gynecologic cancer are uterine, ovarian, cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers.

Gynecologic cancer treatment in Nashville, Tennessee, and Bowling Green, Kentucky

Our gynecological oncology team is with you through diagnosis, treatment and recovery.

The gynecologic cancer specialists at Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute at TriStar Health provide advanced, compassionate care. Our high-quality treatments help you feel as comfortable as possible about the road ahead.

Have cancer questions?

We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated, confidential helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7.

We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated, confidential helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7.

Gynecologic cancer symptoms

The signs and symptoms of gynecologic cancer depend on the type and location of the cancer. However, there are common signs to keep an eye out for, including:

  • Difficult or painful urination
  • Heavy or irregular menstruation
  • Pain, swelling or a feeling of pressure in the abdomen or pelvis
  • Pain during sexual intercourse or vaginal bleeding after intercourse
  • Stomach issues, such as gas, bloating or constipation
  • Vaginal bleeding or discharged unrelated to menstrual periods
  • Vaginal discharge that is clear, white or tinged with blood

Gynecologic cancer treatments and services

You are probably full of questions involving care, treatment options and how your life will be impacted by this diagnosis. Through our network of hospitals in Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky, you have access to the answers.

Types of gynecologic cancer

Gynecologic cancer is a cancer that begins in a woman's reproductive organs. The main types of gynecologic cancer are uterine, ovarian, cervical, vaginal and vulvar cancers. It can originate in various places throughout the pelvis (the area between the hip bones) including the cervix, endometrium, fallopian tubes, ovaries, uterus and vagina.

As part of our comprehensive gynecological service offerings, our specialists are able to provide treatment for a variety of cancers within the female reproductive system, including:

  • Cervical cancer
  • Ovarian cancer (other types of ovarian cancer include epithelial, stromal and germ cell)
  • Uterine cancer (also known as endometrial cancer)
  • Vaginal cancer

Gynecologic cancer risk factors

Although older women are at higher risk, all women are at risk of developing gynecologic cancers. Additionally, the conditions or circumstances that can contribute to your risk, such as:

  • Being beyond the age of menopause (50 years old or older)
  • Having a family history of gynecologic cancers
  • Never being pregnant or having fertility issues
  • Being obese
  • Having hypertension, diabetes, chronic vulvar irritation or late menopause
  • Not having regular Pap screenings or having an abnormal pap smear history
  • Smoking
  • Having multiple sexual partners
  • Having early intercourse
  • Having HIV or HPV

Gynecologic cancer treatment

Gynecologic cancers can be treated in a number of ways. Treatments can include advanced surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Many times, more than one form of therapy is used in a patient's treatment plan. A multidisciplinary team of gynecologic oncologists, surgeons, medical oncologists and radiation oncologists collaborate to determine the best care plan for your condition.

Gynecologic cancer support

Receiving a cancer diagnosis is not easy, but a little bit of support can go a long way. Throughout the Greater Nashville area, there are cancer support groups committed to helping patients with cancer, along with their families, successfully navigate their journey.

About HCA Healthcare Sarah Cannon Cancer Network

Fighting cancer takes a team

HCA Healthcare Sarah Cannon Cancer Network delivers you exceptional cancer care through cutting-edge, specialized treatments, multidisciplinary collaboration and care that is tailored to you. Our teams of passionate caregivers and global oncology experts across the United States and United Kingdom offer services and expertise that extend across many types of cancer. Together with the full support of HCA Healthcare – a leading provider of cancer care and research – we’re with you and your family from diagnosis through survivorship.

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