Gynecologic oncology

A gynecologic cancer diagnosis can feel frightening and overwhelming, but you do not have to face it alone. At Mount Nittany Health, our gynecologic oncology team provides expert, compassionate care for women navigating every stage of diagnosis and treatment. We are here to guide you with advanced therapies, personalized treatment plans and the kind of support that helps you move forward with confidence and hope

What is gynecologic oncology?

Gynecologic oncology is a medical specialty focused on diagnosing and treating cancers of the female reproductive system, including cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal and vulvar cancers, as well as gestational trophoblastic disease. Gynecologic oncologists are physicians who complete a full OB-GYN residency followed by three to four years of specialized fellowship training, making them uniquely qualified to diagnose, stage and treat these cancers through surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and other advanced techniques.

Because gynecologic cancers vary significantly in how they develop, present and respond to treatment, specialized expertise matters. A gynecologic oncologist does not just perform surgery. They lead your entire care team, coordinating every aspect of your diagnosis and treatment to ensure you receive the most effective, personalized care possible.

Gynecologic cancers we treat

Gynecologic cancers affect different parts of the female reproductive system, and each type requires a specialized approach to diagnosis and treatment. Our gynecologic oncology team is equipped to diagnose and treat a wide range of these cancers, including:

 

• Cervical cancer: A cancer that begins in the cervix, often linked to HPV infection. Regular screening can help detect this cancer early.
• Ovarian cancer: Cancer that originates in the ovaries and is often detected at later stages due to subtle symptoms.
• Uterine cancer: Also known as endometrial cancer, this is the most common gynecologic cancer.
• Vaginal cancer: A rare cancer that starts in the vagina and is often associated with HPV.
• Vulvar cancer: Cancer that forms on the external part of the female genitalia, often presenting with skin changes or discomfort.
• Gestational trophoblastic disease: A rare condition that develops in the tissue formed during pregnancy.

Symptoms of gynecologic cancers

Gynecologic cancer symptoms can vary depending on the type and stage of the disease, and they are not always obvious in the early stages. Knowing what to look for and acting quickly when something feels off can make a significant difference in diagnosis and treatment outcomes. Common symptoms of gynecologic cancer include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding: Spotting or bleeding between periods, after menopause or following intercourse
• Pelvic pain: Persistent discomfort or pressure in the pelvic area
• Bloating: Swelling or a feeling of fullness that does not go away
• Changes in urinary or bowel habits: Frequency, urgency or difficulty that is unusual for you
• Unusual discharge: Persistent or foul-smelling discharge that is not typical

Not all of these symptoms indicate cancer, but persistent or unusual changes should always be evaluated by a healthcare provider. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes for all types of gynecologic cancer.

Gynecologic cancer causes and risk factors

The exact causes of gynecologic cancers are not fully understood, and a diagnosis can occur without any clear risk factors. However, certain factors are known to increase the likelihood of developing a gynecologic cancer. These include:

• HPV infection: A significant cause of cervical and vaginal cancer
• Age: Risk increases with age for many gynecologic cancers
• Family history of cancer: Genetic predisposition, such as BRCA mutations or Lynch syndrome, may elevate risk
• Obesity: Excess weight increases the risk of uterine cancer
• History of endometriosis: This condition increases the risk of certain types of ovarian cancer

Diagnosis of gynecologic cancer

Diagnosing gynecologic cancer involves a thorough evaluation to confirm the condition, identify the specific type and determine the most effective course of treatment. Common diagnostic methods include:

• Pelvic examination: A physical exam to check for abnormalities
• Pap smear and HPV testing: Screening tools to detect precancerous changes in the cervix
• Imaging: CT scans, MRIs and ultrasounds to visualize tumors or other abnormalities
• Biopsy: A sample of tissue is taken and examined for cancer cells
• Genetic testing: Identification of hereditary conditions, such as BRCA mutations, that may increase cancer risk

Treatment for gynecologic cancer

Gynecologic cancer treatment is tailored to the individual needs of each patient. Common treatment options include:

• Surgery: Removing cancerous tissue is often the first step in treating gynecologic cancers
• Chemotherapy: Medications that target and destroy cancer cells are used either alone or in combination with other therapies
• Radiation therapy: High-energy beams target and kill cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissue
• Targeted therapy: Drugs designed to block specific pathways in cancer cells to stop their growth
• Immunotherapy: Treatments that boost the body’s immune system to fight cancer
• Clinical trials: Access to innovative treatments that are being studied for effectiveness

When to see a doctor

If you experience persistent or unusual symptoms such as abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, bloating or unusual discharge lasting more than two weeks, it’s important to seek care promptly. You should also speak with a healthcare provider if a recent Pap smear or HPV test returned abnormal results, or if you have a family history of gynecologic or breast cancer that may warrant genetic testing for BRCA mutations or Lynch syndrome.

You do not need to wait for symptoms to become severe before seeking care. If something feels off or you are unsure how often you should be screened, a gynecologic oncologist  can provide guidance tailored to your age, health history and personal risk factors. Early detection is one of the most powerful tools available in the fight against gynecologic cancer.

Our gynecologic oncology team is here to listen, evaluate your concerns and connect you with the right care quickly. You deserve answers, and we are here to help you find them.

Do not ignore persistent or unusual symptoms. Early detection makes a life-changing difference.