Gynecological Cancer

Female Cancers and Treatment

Female cancers are cancers seen in organs in the internal and external genitalia. Ovarian, cervical and uterine cancers are the most common female cancers. Cancer types seen in the external genitalia are cancers seen in the vagina and vulva. In women's cancers and its treatment, different approaches may be preferred depending on the type of cancer and its progression. Often, cancerous tissue needs to be surgically removed. However, with the help of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, cancerous tissues can be destroyed and the female reproductive system can become healthy again.

What Are Female Cancers?

Breast cancer and cancers in the female reproductive system are generally referred to as "female cancer" or "gynecological cancer". The most common female cancers are:

Endometrial (uterine) cancer

Cervical (cervical) cancer

Ovarian cancer

Vulva (external genital area) cancer

Vaginal cancer

What is Endometrial Cancer?

Uterine cancer is a type of cancer that occurs especially in the post-menopausal period. It is more common in women who have never given birth, women with hypertension and obesity. The most prominent feature of uterine cancer is postmenopausal bleeding. Pathological examination of the biopsy taken from the uterus is necessary in the diagnosis of uterine cancer. In the treatment process, surgery may be preferred. If there is a spread to the lymph in the intrauterine region, it may be necessary to remove the lymph nodes along with the cancerous tissue.

What is Cervical Cancer?

It is the most common type of cancer in women, usually caused by HPV, that is, "Human Papilloma Virus". Most of the time it gives no symptoms. Therefore, when routine gynecological controls are disrupted, it can progress silently. When it gives symptoms, it can cause abnormal vaginal bleeding. The most effective method in the diagnosis of cervical cancer is regular PAP-smear tests. When cervical cancer is detected early, the success rate in treatment is quite high. For this reason, it is very important that women with a history of HPV do not delay regular gynecological examinations.

What is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that progresses silently, just like cervical cancer. The most characteristic feature of ovarian cancer is digestive system complaints. For this reason, if the routine examination is interrupted and the symptoms are underestimated, it may be late for treatment. Treatment of ovarian cancer is usually done by removing the ovaries. The main thing in the treatment is the removal of the tumor tissues at the maximum level. For this, it may be necessary to remove the peritoneum, appendicitis, and intra-abdominal lymph nodes when necessary.

What is Vulvar Cancer?

Cancer of the vulva, also known as "cancer of the external genitalia", is characterized by non-healing wounds in the tissues we usually call the vulva. Bleeding may also occur in these wounds. If the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes in the groin, swelling may occur in the groin.

What is Vaginal Cancer?

Vaginal cancer is a very rare type of female cancer. It usually causes bleeding during sexual intercourse. Since it occurs in the area close to the bladder and large intestine, it can also affect defecation. Cancerous tissues in the area can be easily recognized by gynecological examination. A definitive diagnosis can be made based on the biopsy result.

What Are the Symptoms of Female Cancers?

Especially after the menopause period, it is necessary to be more careful about female cancers and not to delay regular gynecological examinations. These complaints, seen after menopause, may be the harbinger of tumors in the genital area:

Abnormal vaginal bleeding

Severe pain in the abdomen, lower back and groin

Disruption of the digestive system

Frequent urination, pressure in the bladder, difficulty urinating, etc.

Burning sensation in the genital area, itching and swelling in the legs accompanying these complaints

Genital discharge (especially bloody, smelly and dark colored discharge)

Male pattern hair loss and abnormal hair growth