Be aware of gynecological cancer symptoms

A century ago, cervical cancer was the number one cause of cancer deaths for U.S. women. Fortunately, in the 1950s, doctors began widely using Pap smears to detect cervical cancer, which caused rates to fall drastically.

Pap tests identify precancerous and cancerous cells in the cervix. Since the human papillomavirus causes most cervical cancers, HPV tests and vaccines also are instrumental in reducing cases of cervical cancer.

Early detection of any cancer greatly improves the chances of effective treatment and a successful recovery. According to the American Cancer Society, cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates have decreased by more than 50 percent over the past three decades, primarily because of screening.

What about other gynecological cancers?

Gynecologic cancer is any cancer that starts in a woman's reproductive organs.

• Cervical cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Uterine cancer
• Vaginal cancer
• Vulvar cancer

Overall, about 117,000 women will be diagnosed with gynecological cancers this year, according to the American Cancer Society. The most common gynecologic cancer is uterine, followed by ovarian.

Considering all cancer rates among women, gynecological cancers rank among the lowest. The three most common cancers for women are breast, lung and colorectal, according to the cancer society.

Cervical cancer screenings

Cervical cancer is the only gynecological cancer that can be identified with routine screenings. That means women should be aware of potential symptoms that could signal cancer.

We recommend the following cervical screening schedule:

• If you are age 21-29, you should have a Pap test every three years.
• If you are age 25-65, you have three options for screening:
  • An HPV test every five years
  • Both a Pap test and an HPV test together every five years
  • Pap test every three years

Your provider can help you decide which test and preventive vaccine are right for you.

If you are over 65 and have had regular cervical cancer testing in the past 10 years with normal results, you do not need to continue screening for cervical cancer.

If you have a history of cervical pre-cancer, you should be tested every three years for at least 20 years after diagnosis, even if testing goes beyond age 65.

Other gyn cancer screenings

Many people mistakenly believe that the Pap also tests for other gynecological cancers. Unfortunately, the only cancer it checks for is cervical cancer.

A blood test can measure levels of a protein called CA-125 (cancer antigen 125). High levels of CA-125 can indicate ovarian cancer. However, other conditions can also cause the high levels, so it's not considered a screening for cancer.

Instead, CA-125 blood tests are more reliable to show whether cancer treatment is working.

For ovarian and uterine cancers, the diagnosis is currently just based on symptoms.

Gyn cancer symptoms

In general, gynecological symptoms, according to the CDC, include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge except for vulvar cancer
• Feeling full too quickly, having trouble eating, bloating and having abdominal or back pain is typical for ovarian cancer
• Pelvic pain or pressure is common for ovarian and uterine cancers
• More frequent or urgent need to urinate and constipation are common for ovarian and vaginal cancers
• Itching, burning, pain, or tenderness of the vulva, and changes in vulva color or skin, such as a rash, sores, or warts, are found only in vulvar cancer

When should I see a provider if I'm concerned? You know your body best. Trust your instincts if you feel something is "off."

Talk to your provider right away if you have unusual vaginal bleeding, including after menopause. If you haven't gone through menopause but have heavier, longer periods, or unusual bleeding between periods, talk to your doctor, the CDC advises.

For other symptoms, the CDC recommends that women see a doctor if they have warning signs that last for two weeks or longer and are not normal for them.

Can I do anything about my risk factors?

You cannot change many risk factors for gynecological cancers, such as age, ethnicity, genetics and a family history of cancers and menstrual issues. Having children, breastfeeding and using the birth control pill reduce the risk of ovarian and uterine cancer.

However, leading a healthier lifestyle can reduce the risk of all cancers. The American Cancer Society says that 40 percent of U.S. cancer cases and 45 percent of cancer deaths are due to modifiable risk factors.

For cervical cancer that includes:

• HPV vaccines
• Regular pap tests
• Using condoms

It may sound like a broken record, but you can reduce your risk of gynecological and all cancers by eating healthy, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and exercising.

If you have a family history of cancer, your doctor may suggest genetic testing. The testing can provide more information and ways to reduce risk.

 

If you need to find a primary care or OB/GYN for an annual checkup, check our provider directory to find one near you.