Comprehensive Care for Gynecological Cancer in Central California
Gynecological cancers are found in a woman’s reproductive system. They include:
- Cervical cancer
- Vulvar cancer
- Vaginal cancer
- Uterine cancer
- Peritoneal, fallopian tube, and ovarian cancer
- Gestational trophoblastic disease, which is usually noncancerous
Dignity Health Central California is dedicated to meeting the special needs of patients with cancer and their families. That’s why we offer highest quality of care for the mind, body, and spirit. Our oncologists and gynecologists partner together to deliver the personalized treatment you deserve.
Find a Doctor who offers compassionate, understanding, and advanced care for gynecological cancer in Central California at our hospitals and cancer centers:
Common Causes of Gynecological Cancer
Doctors don’t know what causes gynecological cancers. However, they have identified a number of factors that may increase your risk of developing it:
- Age increases your risk of all gynecological cancers.
- A family history of uterine cancer or ovarian cancer increases your risk of these cancers.
- Exposure to excess estrogen (with or without progesterone) increases your risk of uterine cancer.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with an increased risk for cervical cancer.
Signs of Gynecological Cancer
Symptoms of gynecological cancer depend on the type of cancer and the organ affected. They may include:
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge
- Bloating
- Abdominal or back pain
- Changes in urination or bowel movement habits
- Skin or color changes of the vulva
- Itching and burning of the genitals
Gynecological Cancer Treatment at Dignity Health Central California
Prevention strategies and treatment options depend on the type of gynecological cancer. For example, the HPV vaccine is useful in helping prevent cervical cancer. Being aware of the signs of specific gynecological cancers and understanding your risk factors can help you and your doctor find and treat potential gynecological problems as soon as possible.
Treatment depends on the stage of cancer. It may include:
- Radiation therapy to shrink tumors or kill cancer cells
- Hormone therapy, which lowers levels of hormones in the body or prevents hormones from working
- Targeted therapy to kill cancer cells using markers that only appear on them and not on healthy cells
- Chemotherapy, which stops cancer cells from growing or kills them
- Surgery to remove the tumor or affected organ
Many times, doctors combine two or more types of treatment approaches.
Talk to your Dignity Health Central California doctor about the benefits and risks of each type of treatment. It’s also important to be clear about your goals and personal preferences when working with your doctor to determine the right treatment for you.
Dignity Health Central California offers the most advanced technologies for diagnosing and treating gynecological cancer in Bakersfield, Merced, San Andreas, and Stockton, CA.