What is Gynecologic Oncology?
What we primarily do here at Nevada Surgery & Cancer Care is called gynecologic oncology. So what is gynecologic oncology, you may ask? Well, our work is at the intersection of women’s medicine and cancer treatment. Gynecologic oncology is a specialty used to diagnose and treat cancers located in women’s reproductive organs. This area traditionally includes the ovaries, vagina, uterus, cervix, and vulva.
However, we also treat various cancers located in the rectum and colon as well. Additionally, we offer cancer prevention in the form of genetic testing and counseling. We also offer laser vaginal regenerations for women, which is generally sought after by those who underwent childbirth.
A gynecologic oncologist is a physician who has completed board exams in gynecology, obstetrics, and oncology. In order to officially become a gynecologic oncologist, you must complete a four-year residency followed by a three- or four-year fellowship. This is in addition to the required four years of medical school.
Usually, patients do not seek out a gynecologic oncologist by themselves. Typically, you will go to see one after you have been diagnosed with a precancer or cancer in any gynecological area. The cancers that our physicians treat are:
- Cervical cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Uterine cancer
- Vaginal cancer
- Vulvar cancer
- Colon cancer
- Rectal cancer
There are a few reasons to visit a gynecologic oncologist.
1. You Are Experiencing Symptoms
You should make an appointment with your OBGYN if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Vaginal sores that do not heal
- Abnormal amounts of vaginal discharge or bleeding
- Changes to your digestion
- Bloating
- Irregular elimination or urination
- Pain in any area near your reproductive organs
- Any sort of lump near the vagina or abdomen
2. If You Get Referred By Your OBGYN
Gynecological oncologists are essentially specialists. Most people will be referred to one by their regular OBGYN if their OBGYN deems it necessary.
OBGYNs might be able to ascertain any sort of possible cancer, but gynecological oncologists are able to determine whether or not you have cancer, what type of cancer you have, and if you need to start treatment.
3. You Have a Genetic Predisposition to Gynecological Cancers
Certain people are more predisposed to gynecological cancers simply due to their genes. People who have a family history of cancer are at much higher risk. Going to a gynecological oncologist can greatly help you understand which cancers you may be susceptible to and how to look out for them.
Some other factors that might particularly recommend you for genetic counseling with a gynecologic oncologist are:
- Personal history of breast cancer
- Relatives who have had breast cancer under the age of 50
- Multiple relatives who have had breast cancer
- Have Eastern European Jewish ancestory
- A relative with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation
- Have a history of endometrial cancer
- Have a history of colon or rectal cancer
- Have any relatives who have a Lynch syndrome mutation
What Sets Nevada Surgery & Cancer Care Apart from Others?
Not only are we capable of performing testing for gynecological oncology, but we are also able to enact state-of-the-art, minimally invasive treatments and cancer prevention through genetic testing. Our practice is unique due to its full-spectrum, quality care. From start to finish, you can be confident that we will serve our patients with 100% of our attention, care, and patience.
In addition to cancer treatments, we also offer laser vaginal regenerations with Femilift. These treatments can radically shift the effects of aging and childbirth on the vagina. As a result, women who previously may have had strains related to urination, sexual health, and their quality of life due to vaginal stretching can be helped.