Gynecologic Cancers

Comprehensive care and understanding of the various gynecologic cancers – the causes, risk factors and treatment options.

Understanding Gynecologic Cancers and Treatment Options

Gynecologic cancer encompasses a range of cancers that originate in a woman’s reproductive system. This includes cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, vaginal cancer, vulvar cancer, and endometrial (uterine) cancer. Each type has its unique causes, risk factors, and treatment modalities. Importantly, early detection significantly enhances treatment effectiveness across all gynecologic cancers. By educating yourself about these cancers, their risk factors, and potential symptoms, you can take proactive steps to minimize the risk of developing advanced-stage gynecologic cancer.

Treatment plans tailored to each individual.

At El Portal Comprehensive Cancer Centers, our team works collaboratively—our surgeon, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists, nurses and other care staff join forces to ensure you receive the most comprehensive and integrated treatment possible to insure the best outcome possible.

Types of Gynecologic Cancers

There six primary types of gynecologic cancers. The treatment options will vary according to cancer type, tumor grade, and cancer stage.

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Gynecologic Cancer Risks

All women face a risk of developing gynecologic cancers, and this risk increases with age. While some risk factors are controllable, others are not.

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Gyncologic Symptoms to Watch Out For

Being aware of potential symptoms can help facilitate early detection. Experiencing any of the symptoms for more than a month, we strongly recommend seeing your gynecologist.

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Treatment Options

A treatment plan for gynecologic cancers is tailored to each individual. Surgery may be the first step, often followed by a combination of chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.

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EPCC Surgical System:
Exceptional Care Delivered with Precision

At EPCC, we are committed to providing the highest quality surgical treatment possible. Our skilled Gynecologic Oncology Surgeon is equipped with the latest robotic technology to ensure your care is state-of-the-art. Similar to laparoscopic surgery, robotic-assisted procedures involve only a few small incisions in the abdomen. Through these openings, a high-definition vision system and specialized instruments are inserted, allowing our surgeon to control these tools with the robotic system, effectively performing the necessary procedure. In many cases, patients are treated as outpatients, with the possibility of returning home the same day if all goes well.

Our robotic-assisted surgeries primarily address gynecologic conditions, including cancer treatments requiring a hysterectomy for cervical, uterine, endometrial, or ovarian cancer.
Exploring Other Surgical and Treatment Options for Gynecologic Cancers

While minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is a remarkable advancement, it’s essential to recognize that not every patient is a suitable candidate for this approach. In some instances, neoadjuvant therapy may be necessary to shrink the tumor to a manageable size before surgery. Neoadjuvant therapies can include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy.
For patients with more advanced cancer that has spread beyond its initial site, surgery may be combined with radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy to target any remaining cancer cells. This is referred to as adjuvant (or multi-modality) therapy.
In certain cases, intraperitoneal chemotherapy—administered directly into the abdominal cavity—may also be an option for patients who have undergone effective surgical resection of their tumors with minimal residual disease.

Our dedicated surgeon and their team are here to address any questions you may have regarding your gynecologic surgery options.

Expert Care from Gynecologic Oncology Specialists

The Gynecologic Oncology team at El Portal Cancer Centers is devoted to providing comprehensive care for women facing pre-cancers and cancers of the female reproductive organs, as well as tumors associated with pregnancy. Our surgeon is a highly qualified expert in this field, and along with a multidisciplinary team including oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, nurse practitioners, physician associates, social workers, financial counselors, and dieticians, we offer a holistic, patient-focused approach to care.

We understand that the prospect of gynecologic surgery can be daunting. To alleviate your concerns, our surgeon prioritizes meeting with you on the same week you reach out and aims to schedule your procedure within that timeframe. Throughout your care process, you can count on us to maintain transparent and effective communication with your oncologist.

Supportive Care and Resources for Gynecologic Cancer

At El Portal Cancer Centers, we recognize that support is crucial during your cancer journey. Our team of licensed oncology clinical social workers is highly trained in the field of cancer care and is available to help patients and their families navigate their diagnoses and treatment plans. They are also equipped to connect you with community resources, support groups, and educational programs that may be beneficial.

Our oncology social workers are integral members of your treatment team, playing a vital role in ensuring you have the support and information you need.

At El Portal Comprehensive Cancer Centers, we recognize that support is crucial during your cancer journey. Our team of licensed oncology clinical social workers is highly trained in the field of cancer care and is available to help patients and their families navigate their diagnoses and treatment plans. They are also equipped to connect you with community resources, support groups, and educational programs that may be beneficial.

Our oncology social workers are integral members of your treatment team, playing a vital role in ensuring you have the support and information you need. At EPCC, your well-being is our priority, and we are here to assist you throughout your journey with compassion and expertise.

“Your well-being is our priority, and we are here to assist you throughout your journey with compassion and expertise.”
— El Portal Comprehensive Cancer Centers

Types of Gynecologic Cancers

What is Gynecologic Cancer?

Gynecologic cancer refers to cancers affecting the female reproductive system. The five primary types include ovarian, cervical, endometrial, vulvar, and vaginal cancers. Each type presents distinct characteristics, yet early detection remains critical for effective treatment.

Types of Gynecologic Cancers

The six primary types of gynecologic cancers include:

  1. Cervical:Originates in the cervix, the lower end of the uterus leading to the vagina.
  2. Ovarian:Begins in the ovaries, the female reproductive glands located on either side of the uterus.
  3. Uterine (Endometrial):Arises in the uterus, the organ where fetal development occurs.
  4. Vaginal:Develops in the vagina, the channel between the uterus and the outside of the body.
  5. Vulvar:Occurs on the vulva, the external part of the female genitalia.
  6. Tubal:Begins in the fallopian tubes.


While treatment options will vary according to cancer type, tumor grade, and cancer stage, surgery is nearly always a crucial component. Many treatment plans also include chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. At El Portal Cancer Centers, our team works collaboratively—our surgeon, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists join forces to ensure you receive the most comprehensive and integrated care possible.

Gynecologic Cancer Risks

What are the Risk Factors?

All women face a risk of developing gynecologic cancers, and this risk increases with age. While some risk factors are controllable, others are not.

Commonly associated controllable risk factors include:

  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
  • Long-term oral contraceptive use
  • Being overweight or obese
  • Poor nutrition
  • Smoking
  • Exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES)
  • Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV/AIDS) infection

In addition to making lifestyle changes—such as maintaining a balanced diet and exercising regularly—discussing your concerns with your doctor can lead to proactive measures for risk reduction, like the HPV vaccine.

Unfortunately, some risk factors are beyond your control, including age, race, and family history. It’s essential to remember that many women with risk factors never develop gynecologic cancer. If there is a family history of certain cancers, consider discussing genetic testing options with your healthcare provider.

Gynecologic Cancer Symptoms

What Symptoms Should I Watch For?

Being aware of potential symptoms can help facilitate early detection. Some symptoms include:

  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge
  • Pelvic pain
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Frequent or urgent bowel changes
  • Bloating or a feeling of fullness


If you experience any of these symptoms for more than a month, we strongly recommend scheduling an appointment with your gynecologist. Regular check-ups are vital, even in the absence of symptoms.

What Should I Ask My Doctor?

Establishing an open dialogue with your doctor is crucial for understanding gynecologic cancer. Consider asking:

  • What is a Pap test, and why is it necessary?
  • How often should I schedule Pap tests?
  • What do my Pap results mean?
  • Is an HPV test appropriate for me?
  • When can I discontinue Pap testing?

Gynecologic Cancer Treatments

How are Gynecologic Cancers Treated? A treatment plan for gynecologic cancers is tailored to each individual. Surgery is generally the first step, often followed by a combination of chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. Our specialists collaborate closely to ensure every aspect of your treatment is addressed thoroughly.

Are All Gynecologic Conditions Cancerous? Not all gynecological conditions are cancerous. Many benign conditions may resolve on their own or can be treated effectively. Examples include fibroids, ovarian cysts, and pelvic infections, each of which may require specific management based on severity.

Robotic-Assisted Surgery and Gynecologic Care

At El Portal Cancer Centers, we offer robotic-assisted surgery, a minimally invasive option that reduces recovery time and minimizes surgical trauma. This advanced approach allows for precise procedures through smaller incisions, resulting in less pain and scarring, lower infection risks, and quicker returns to daily activities.

Minimally Invasive Surgery Options

  • Laparoscopic Surgery:A gold standard in gynecologic procedures, this technique involves small incisions and utilizes a camera to guide the surgeon.\
  • Robotic-Assisted Surgery: A New Era in Gynecologic CareThe landscape of gynecologic surgery has transformed significantly. At El Portal Cancer Centers (EPCC), we are proud to offer robotic-assisted surgery, a forward-thinking option that allows for minimally invasive procedures with enhanced precision and improved outcomes. This advanced technique utilizes specialized robotic instruments coupled with a unique 3D high-definition view of the surgical site, empowering your surgeon to perform with remarkable accuracy.