Gynecologic cancer is any type of cancer that begins in the female reproductive system including cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer and vulvar cancer. All women are at risk to develop this cancer and the risk increases with age and treatment is most effective when found early.
Cervical Cancer Symptoms and Causes
This cancer forms in the tissues of the cervix which is the organ connecting the uterus and vagina. The symptoms include:
Bleeding from the vagina (other than during the menstrual cycle)
Vaginal discharge with an unpleasant smell
Discomfort or pain during sex
Some of the risk factors that contribute to Cervical Cancer causes:
HPV infection – Major cause for most types of cervical cancer and makes up to 80% of women
Other sexually transmitted infection
Smoking
Birth control – recent research suggests women who have taken birth control pills for at least five years are more likely to develop cervical cancer
Ovarian Cancer Symptoms and Causes
Symptoms:
Pain in the lower abdomen or side
Bloating, feeling full in the abdomen
Irregular periods
Vaginal bleeding after menopause
Back pain
Passing urine more often
Constipation
Pain during sex
Swollen abdomen
Fatigue
Although it’s not clear what causes ovarian cancer here are some risk factors::
Older age – most commonly found in women ages 50 to 60 years
Inherited gene mutations – the genes known to increase the risk of ovarian cancer: gene 1 (BRCA1) and breast cancer gene2 (BRCA2) along with other gene mutations associated with Lynch syndrome
Family history of ovarian cancer – people with two or more close relatives with ovarian cancer have an increased risk
Estrogen hormone replacement therapy
Age when menstruation started and ended – starting menstruation at an early age or starting menopause at a later age, may increase this risk
