Gynecologic Cancer

Overview

Gynecologic cancers, including cervical cancer, vaginal or vulvar cancer, uterine or endometrial cancer, and ovarian cancer, affect thousands of individuals with reproductive organs every year. These cancers originate in the reproductive system and can impact people of all ages, though risk factors like age, family history, and lifestyle choices may increase the likelihood of developing certain types. 

At UR Medicine, our gynecologic oncology team specializes in comprehensive care, from advanced screenings to cutting-edge treatments. Recognizing risk factors early allows for timely intervention, and our experts are here to guide you through prevention, diagnosis, and treatment options tailored to your needs.

What Are the Symptoms of Gynecologic Cancers?

Though gynecologic cancers don’t always have obvious symptoms, you should see your doctor as soon as possible if you experience:

• A sore that doesn’t heal
• Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge, particularly after menopause
• A thickening or lump that either causes pain or can be seen and felt
• Persistent indigestion or bloating
• Pain in the pelvic area
• Changes in bowel or bladder habits

When Should I See a Gynecologic Oncologist?

If your obstetrician/gynecologist or primary care provider feel your symptoms require evaluation or care, they  may recommend that you see a gynecological oncologist, a specialist in caring for individuals with cancer of the reproductive system.

Annual gynecological examinations and pap tests can help protect you. You should discuss any concerns or changes with your doctor.

What Are the Risk Factors for Gynecologic Cancers?

Risks vary depending on the type of cancer, but there are some common threads, including:

• Approaching or already experiencing menopause (50+)
• Family history of ovarian cancer or cancers of the uterus, colon, or breast
• Infertility or no prior pregnancies
• Obesity
• Hypertension, diabetes, chronic vulvar irritation, or late menopause
• Certain medications like tamoxifen or unopposed estrogen
• A history of abnormal pap smears or not having them regularly
• Smoking
• Multiple sexual partners
• First intercourse before the age of 16
• HPV
• HIV

Though gynecologic cancers can affect anyone, some may be at greater risk. Recognizing the risk factors means you can take advantage of available health screenings that can detect problems before they become serious.

More importantly, many risk factors signal a need to change one’s lifestyle—by taking control and eliminating behaviors or conditions that can lead to cancer. Taking good care of oneself and following your physician’s recommendations for regular care and screenings can go a long way toward avoiding cancer and other diseases.

What Sets Us Apart?

Gynecologic Oncology’s physicians are fellowship-trained—the highest level of education in their field—and are subspecialists in this form of cancer. Our physicians are also leaders in minimally invasive and robotic procedures, giving patients the most and best treatment options. Our surgeons perform more minimally invasive, robotic gynecological surgeries than anyone else in the Rochester metropolitan area and surrounding region.

UR Medicine's Wilmot Cancer Institute provides world-class cancer treatment and care and conducts pivotal research. Established in 1974, it has a long history of outstanding clinical care and research breakthroughs. Wilmot features an 87-bed flagship cancer center, 13 outpatient locations, and one of the state’s largest blood and marrow transplant programs.

Highland Hospital has been performing robotic surgeries since 2008; its gynecologic oncology surgeons were the first in the area to provide minimally invasive options for gynecologic conditions. Minimally invasive surgery can mean quicker recovery, less pain and scarring, and fewer complications.

The Joint Commission–the nation’s top health care accrediting organization–has awarded Highland’s Gynecologic Oncology program the Gold Seal of Approval; this certification demonstrates Highland’s commitment to the highest standards of excellence for uterine and ovarian cancer.

Referring Providers

Click here for information on referring patients to UR Medicine Gynecologic Oncology.

Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval