Gynecological cancer is a group of cancers that affect the female reproductive system. It can develop in any part of the reproductive system including the uterus, ovaries, cervix, vagina, vulva and fallopian tubes.

The most common types of gynecological cancers include ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, endometrial cancer, vulvar cancer, and vaginal cancer. Understanding the different types and their symptoms can help with early detection and treatment.

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is caused by the growth of abnormal cells in the ovaries which are located in the pelvis.

It is the most deadly gynecological cancer and is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it does not cause symptoms until it has spread to other parts of the body. Common symptoms to watch out for include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.

Ovarian cancer is more common in older women, especially those who have never been pregnant, have a family history, or have an inherited gene mutation known as BRCA1 or BRCA2.

Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is caused by the growth of abnormal cells in the cervix. It is the most preventable and treatable gynecological cancer, thanks to regular Pap tests which can detect abnormal cells on the cervix.

Symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, bleeding after sex, pain during sex, and pelvic pain. Cervical cancer is often caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and is more common in women who have had multiple sexual partners or who have a weakened immune system.

Endometrial Cancer

Endometrial cancer is caused by the growth of abnormal cells in the lining of the uterus. Symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, postmenopausal bleeding, and pelvic pain.

Endometrial cancer is more common in women who are obese, have a history of infertility, have never had children or started menstruating at an early age.

Vulvar Cancer

Vulvar cancer is caused by the growth of abnormal cells on the outside of the female genitalia. Symptoms may include a lump or bump on the vulva, itching, burning, or pain.

Vulvar cancer is more common in older women, those with a weakened immune system, and those with a history of human papillomavirus (HPV) or other sexually transmitted infections.

Vaginal Cancer

Vaginal cancer is caused by the growth of abnormal cells in the vagina. Symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, a lump or bump in the vagina, pain during sex, and a vaginal discharge.

Vaginal cancer is more common in older women, those with a history of human papillomavirus (HPV), and those who have had radiation therapy to the pelvic area.

Conclusion

Gynecological cancer is a group of cancers that affect the female reproductive system. The most common types of gynecological cancers include ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, endometrial cancer, vulvar cancer, and vaginal cancer.

Understanding the different types and their symptoms can help with early detection and treatment. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider and screening tests such as pap tests and HPV tests can help with early detection of gynecological cancers.