Gynecological cancers affect millions of women each year in the United States. Similar to other cancers, early detection is the key to making a full recovery. The problem with gynecological cancers is that many have no symptoms, thus many women are unaware that the cancer has developed. This sort of cancer affects the reproductive systems, and are diagnosed by pelvic exams and pap smear. Women who ignore necessary annual exams are twice as likely to die from gynecological cancers. When treated early, gynecological cancers have a high cure rate. Unfortunately, many women underestimate the importance of routine check-ups, and receive a diagnosis after the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Gynecological cancers include:

• Cervical Cancer
• Uterine Cancer
• Ovarian Cancer
• Vaginal Cancer
• Vulva Cancer

Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is cancer of the cervix and develops when normal cells change to cancerous cells. This particular cancer mostly affects women between the ages of 35 and 55, but can also occur in younger women. Although cervical cancer has no symptoms, this cancer is highly treatable. Contrary to other forms of cancer, cervical cancer develops very slowly. Thus, women who receive annual pap smears are less likely to develop cervical cancer. During examinations, physicians are usually able to detect changes in cells prior to them becoming cancerous. These are called pre-cancerous cells. Pre-cancerous cells are removed from the body before cancer develops. Removing these cells reduces the odds of developing cervical cancer to 1%. Although most cases of cervical cancer have no symptoms, indicators of problems in the cervix include:

• Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
• Bleeding During/After Sexual Intercourse
• Pain During Sexual Intercourse
• Abnormal Vaginal Discharge

Progressive cervical cancer symptoms may include:

• Anemia
• Chronic Pelvic Pain
• Urinary Problems
• Weight Loss

Cervical cancer should be diagnosed and treated early. When left untreated, the cancer may spread to other parts of the body.