Clinical trials play an important role in improving cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment. For some patients, taking part may offer access to new therapies that are not yet widely available. Your care team can help determine whether a clinical trial may be an option and explain what participation involves.
What are Gynecologic Cancers?
Gynecologic cancers affect the organs of the female reproductive system, including the:
- Ovaries
- Uterus and uterine lining
- Cervix
- Vagina
- Vulva
Gynecologic cancers occur when cells in these organs begin to grow and divide in abnormal ways. Over time, this can form tumors that affect surrounding tissue and overall health.
Whether you’re experiencing symptoms, seeking answers after an abnormal screening or facing a confirmed diagnosis, specialists at the Alvin & Lois Lapidus Cancer Institute and William E. Kahlert Regional Cancer Center provide clear guidance, personalized treatment options and supportive follow-up care.
Symptoms of Gynecologic Cancers
When symptoms of gynecologic cancers appear, they’re often related to changes in reproductive or pelvic health. These may include:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge
- Pelvic, abdominal or back pain
- Bloating or a feeling of pressure in the abdomen
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
If you notice symptoms that are new, persistent or getting worse, it’s important to talk with a healthcare provider.
How Gynecologic Cancers are Diagnosed
Some gynecologic cancers are found during routine screenings, while others are diagnosed after symptoms lead to further evaluation. If cancer is suspected, your care team uses a combination of tests to confirm a diagnosis and guide treatment.
Screening Tests
Regular screening can help detect certain cancers early, sometimes before symptoms appear.
- Pap test: Checks for abnormal cells on the cervix
- HPV test: Looks for high-risk HPV types linked to cervical cancer
Pelvic Exam
Your provider checks the reproductive organs for changes, such as lumps, swelling or areas that need closer evaluation.
Imaging Tests
Imaging provides a clearer view of the pelvic organs and helps determine whether cancer is present and whether it has spread. Your care team may recommend:
- Ultrasound
- CT (computed tomography)
- MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
Biopsy
If an abnormal area is found, a small sample of tissue is removed and tested for cancer cells. This is the key step in confirming a diagnosis.
Blood Tests
Blood tests cannot diagnose cancer on their own, but they can help assess overall health and support treatment planning.
Treatments for Gynecologic Cancers
Care for gynecologic cancers at LifeBridge Health is led by a team of specialists with expertise in these conditions. Your team works closely with you to develop a personalized plan based on your diagnosis, overall health and goals for care.
Treatment may include:
Surgery
Surgery is often a primary treatment for gynecologic cancers. It may involve removing the cancer, the affected organ, and nearby tissue or lymph nodes, depending on the specific case.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medication to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. It may be used alone or combined with other treatments.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. In some cases, treatment may include interstitial brachytherapy, which places radiation directly inside or close to the tumor for more precise treatment.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy uses drugs that focus on specific features of cancer cells that help them grow. This approach helps limit damage to healthy tissue.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy uses medication to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
Clinical Trials
Supportive Services
When you receive cancer care at LifeBridge Health, you have access to supportive services like counseling, integrative therapies and support groups. These resources are designed to help patients care for their physical and emotional well‑being throughout treatment and beyond.