Early detection of cancer is of paramount importance in gynecologic cancers, as it is in all other types of cancer. Therefore, women should be aware of their risks and undergo regular screenings at regular intervals.
The most common types of cancer in women are:
- Uterine Cancer
- Cervical Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Vulvar Cancer
- Vaginal Cancer
Uterine Cancer
Uterine cancer typically occurs after menopause, often in women who have had few or no children and who may have concomitant conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. Postmenopausal bleeding is a key symptom. Diagnosis is made through endometrial biopsy. Treatment involves removal of the uterus and ovaries, along with removal of intra-abdominal lymph nodes.
Cervical Cancer:
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer caused by the HPV virus. Vaccination is recommended for prevention. It often does not present symptoms, but can be detected through a Pap smear test. If there is frequent bleeding, suspicion should arise and medical consultation is advised. Treatment involves extensive removal of the uterus and its ligaments, along with clearance of intra-abdominal lymph nodes. This surgery should be performed by a team experienced in gynecologic oncology.
Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer often progresses silently or presents with digestive system complaints. Due to delayed medical consultation, the disease is often caught in advanced stages. The most significant symptom is abdominal bloating. Early diagnosis is challenging in women who do not undergo routine gynecologic check-ups. Treatment primarily involves maximal tumor removal, including the uterus, tumor, peritoneum, appendix, and intra-abdominal lymph nodes. Based on the results, some patients may also receive chemotherapy.
Vulvar Cancer
Vulvar cancer manifests as non-healing sores on the vulva. Bleeding may occur. If it spreads to the groin lymph nodes, swelling in the groin area may develop. Diagnosis is confirmed through biopsies of suspicious areas. Treatment involves complete tumor removal, with the necessity of removing the groin lymph nodes to determine the extent of the disease.
According to the results, some patients may also receive radiation therapy in addition.
Vaginal Cancer
Vaginal cancer is very rare and can cause bleeding. Due to its proximity to the bladder and rectum, it may also cause symptoms related to these organs. During a gynecological examination, bleeding erosions or tumor areas may be seen on the vaginal wall. Diagnosis is confirmed by examining biopsies taken from this area. Treatment options include surgery or radiation therapy.
What complaints should women in the postmenopausal period definitely report to their doctors?
Abnormal bleeding:
Even minimal bleeding after menopause is not normal. Additionally, any excessive bleeding during menstruation or abnormal bleeding should prompt a visit to the doctor.
Pain in the abdomen, back, and pelvis: Persistent abdominal pain outside of menstrual periods could be a sign of uterine and ovarian cancers.
Changes in bowel habits:
Complaints such as constipation, gas, diarrhea, nausea, and indigestion could indicate pressure on the intestines due to intra-abdominal masses.
Changes in urinary habits:
Frequent urination, feeling of pressure in the bladder, difficulty urinating could indicate a growth inside the abdomen.
Palpable swelling in the abdomen, gas, bloating, and increase in waist size: These symptoms could be indicative of ovarian cancer and accumulation of fluid in the abdomen.
Persistent burning and itching in the genital area, changes in skin color, sores, and swellings in the external genital area may be related to genital cancers.
Genital discharge:
Bloody, dark, and foul-smelling discharge may indicate an infection, but it could also be a sign of uterine and cervical cancers.
Swelling in the legs:
Unexplained swelling in the legs accompanied by discharge and pain could indicate cervical cancer.
Abnormal bleeding following childbirth or miscarriage may be related to cancer stemming from pregnancy tissues.
Masculinization effects such as male pattern hair loss and abnormal hair growth could stem from tumors originating in the ovaries.