Spreading Awareness and Hope During Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month

September is recognized as Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to education, prevention, and support for women and families who are impacted by these diagnoses. Some health challenges are beyond our control, yet caring for your body and mind now can lessen the impact and help you feel more supported.

When it comes to cancer, prevention and early detection can be vital. By raising awareness and encouraging regular screenings, we can empower women with the knowledge and resources they need to protect their health and take action with confidence.

Raising Awareness About Gynecologic Cancer

Gynecologic Cancer Awareness can help catch a problem early, and knowing how to advocate for your health could save your life.

September is a time for awareness, shining a spotlight on cancers of the female reproductive system: cervix, ovaries, uterus, vagina, and vulva. Educating yourself this month will prove valuable throughout the year.

What is Gynecologic Cancer?

Cancers known as gynecologic cancers include the following:

• ovarian
• vaginal
• vulvar
• cervical
• uterine or endometrial

It’s estimated that combined, gynecologic cancers account for nearly 40% of all cancer incidence and more than 30% of cancer mortality in women worldwide.¹ 

Unfortunately, the burden of cancer and mortality generally seems to be escalating, and the incidence of gynecological malignancies in the United States continues to rise. This makes early detection even more important. Here are some statistics on the rates of gynecologic cancers:

1. Uterine or endometrial cancer, a cancer that forms in the lining of the uterus, is the most common type of gynecologic cancer, the fourth most common cancer in women in the United States², and the third most diagnosed cancer in women worldwide.¹

2. Cervical cancer is the second most prevalent gynecological cancer and fourth among causes of cancer‐related deaths in women.1 Cervical cancer rates in the United States have dropped thanks to Pap smears and HPV testing.²

3. Ovarian cancer ranks fourth among gynecological malignancies.¹

Knowing what to watch for is part of gyno cancer awareness.

What Are the Symptoms of Gynecologic Cancer?

It’s not easy to determine the symptoms of gynecological cancer. That’s because symptoms can vary depending on the type of cancer, and symptoms may not be the same for every woman.

Common symptoms for cancers of the uterus, ovaries, cervix, and vagina include:²

• abnormal vaginal bleeding
• abnormal discharge
• pelvic pain or pressure

Other symptoms include rashes, itching, burning, pain, and color changes in the vulva (found in vulvar cancer) and persistent bloating or feeling full after eating a small amount of food, or changes in bowel or bladder function (common in ovarian cancer).2

Since symptoms can vary so widely, it’s important to stay in tune with your body and watch for changes that are out of the ordinary for you. Any concerns should be discussed with your health care professional. Want to know more about pelvic health? Read this summary of the main causes of pelvic health issues. 

To find a pelvic specialist near you, use the Physician Finder to help find a medical professional with expertise in women’s health. The Physician Finder tool enables women to search for pelvic health physicians and specialists in their local area, either by using the interactive map or by entering their location. A person can select a physician by specialty or type of physician, or search by conditions treated. 

What Are the Screening Tests for Gynecologic Cancer?

One of the keys to gyno cancer awareness is to undergo regular screening tests to detect any problems early and begin treatment immediately. 

Here are three recommended types of gynecologic cancer screenings: ³,

1. Pelvic Exam

Your doctor will examine your vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and rectum. Pelvic exams can help with early detection of abnormalities of the female reproductive system, including cervical and ovarian cancers. These tests should be done yearly, starting at age 18 or at the onset of sexual activity.

2. Pap Smear 

It’s recommended that women undergo this test every three years, starting at age 21 or three years after the start of sexual activity. A pap smear can detect both cervical and uterine cancers. 

3. Endometrial Tissue Sample

This test checks for abnormal cells or signs of uterine cancer. It’s recommended that this test be done on women with a high risk for endometrial cancer, such as those with a family history, or when there are symptoms that raise concern. 

Pelvic Exams are Important for Women

When it comes to a pelvic exam, women should have this as part of their regular doctor’s visits. Not every doctor will recommend having this exam every year, but it’s up to you to determine what’s best for your health. Sometimes it’s recommended when there are symptoms like discharge from the vagina or pelvic pain.

External and internal visual examinations are part of a typical pelvic exam, along with a physical exam that involves your doctor inserting a finger into your vagina to perform the checkup. The pelvic exam checks your vulva, vagina, cervix, ovaries, uterus, rectum, and pelvis for any unusual changes. A pap smear should also be part of this test.⁴

Early Detection and Early Treatment are Key

The goal of Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month is to make women alert to the signs of gynecologic cancer, to encourage women to see a doctor with any concerns, and to ensure women are undergoing the regular screening programs that can detect gynecologic cancer early.

Here are the three things you should remember about gynecologic cancer:⁵

1. Practice a lifestyle that promotes well-being by maintaining a healthy weight, eating well, and exercising.
2. Get a yearly physical exam that includes a pelvic exam, and stay up to date on screening like Pap smears.
3. Be aware of symptoms such as abnormal bleeding, bleeding after menopause, or persistent bloating. 

If you notice changes in your body or have questions about your health, do not wait. Reach out to your healthcare provider and advocate for yourself. Use the Physician Finder Tool to find a healthcare specialist near you. Awareness is the first step, and taking action can make all the difference.

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1- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11077337/

2- https://cancerblog.mayoclinic.org/2022/09/21/mayo-clinic-experts-answer-3-questions-about-gynecologic-cancer/

3- https://hillman.upmc.com/cancer-care/gynecologic/screenings

4- https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/pelvic-exam/about/pac-20385135

5- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6371uKfois&feature=youtu.be

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