Cancer is a life-threatening disease in which abnormal cells divide uncontrollably and destroy the tissues of the body. Cancer can occur in any part or organ of the body and then spread to other parts of the body. It is one of the leading causes of death all over the world and hence, needs to be closely looked at.
Gynecological cancers are cancers of the reproductive system. The uncontrollable cell division starts in the reproductive organs of the body before spreading to other parts. Every year, lakhs of women all over the world are diagnosed with gynecological cancer, and tens of thousands of women die due to various types of gynecological cancers.
Hence it is extremely important to be aware of the types and symptoms of various gynecological cancers, as early diagnosis is essential for a successful treatment.
There are five main types of gynecological cancers, i.e. cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar cancer. Though a few symptoms are common, each of these cancers has their own symptoms.
Cervix is a narrow neck-like passage forming the lower end of the uterus. Cervical cancer is the second most common cause of cancer-related death in women worldwide. A majority of cervical cancers are caused due to HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection. Abnormal division or changes in either squamous or glandular cells in the cervix can cause cervical cancer.
Some of the most common symptoms are:
Ovarian cancer, as the name suggests, starts in the ovaries. It is of three types: epithelial ovarian cancer, germ cell cancer, and stromal cell cancer. Of these, epithelial cell cancer is the most common and the symptoms are:
Endometrial cancer is also known as uterine cancer and is the most common type of gynecological cancer. It starts in the uterus and can occur due to various factors like obesity, diabetes, hypertension, use of estrogen without progesterone etc.
Some common symptoms of endometrial cancer are:
Vaginal cancer is one of the rarest forms of gynecological cancers. Mostly, it affects older women beyond the age of 50 and is usually associated with HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection. The symptoms usually do not show until cancer has progressed to an advanced stage. Symptoms to look out for:
Vulvar cancer is another rare form of gynecological cancer. It also affects usually older women and can be detected quite easily, since it occurs on the external female genitalia. Vulvar cancer is very treatable and some of the common symptoms are:
Every woman is at a risk of developing gynecological cancers. However, certain steps can be taken to prevent the condition to a certain extent:
HPV infection significantly increases the risk of a few types of gynecological cancers. Protecting women against HPV infection by vaccination is essential to reduce the risk of gynecological cancers.
It is also important to be aware of the family history of cancer as it will help in the prevention or early diagnosis. Living an active lifestyle and eating a healthy diet is important for the prevention of any type of cancer. Lastly, it is important to get yourself checked up regularly. Not only this will help in prevention, but also early diagnosis, which is very important for the treatment procedure.
For example, Pap tests for detection of HPV virus are very effective in the prevention and early diagnosis of certain gynecological cancers. If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned earlier, do not hesitate to contact your gynecologist. Early diagnosis is the key to effective treatment and cure. Cloudnine is one of the leading gynecology hospitals in the country.
Cloudnine’s extremely qualified team of gynecologists and specialists are well experienced in dealing with various gynecological conditions including cancers. Our doctors are well versed in performing complex procedures like Hysterectomy, Endometriosis treatment, Fibroid treatment, Pap smear tests, Colposcopy, HPV vaccination etc. At Cloudnine, we provide treatment and care of the highest quality to all of your gynecological problems.
Want to consult the best gynecologists in India? Please find the links below.
Want to consult the best Maternity Packages in India? Please find the links below.
