Basic Information About Gynecologic Cancers

Cancer is a disease in which cells in the body grow out of control. When cancer starts in a woman’s reproductive organs, it is called gynecologic cancer. The five main types of gynecologic cancer are: cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar. (A sixth type of gynecologic cancer is the very rare fallopian tube cancer.)

Of all the gynecologic cancers, only cervical cancer has a screening test—the Pap test—that can find this cancer early, when treatment can be most effective. Since there is no simple and reliable way to screen for any gynecologic cancers except cervical cancer, it is especially important to recognize warning signs, and learn if there are things you can do to reduce your risk.

There are several ways to treat gynecologic cancer. The treatment depends on the type of cancer and how far it has spread.

What Is Gynecologic Cancer?

Gynecologic cancer is any cancer that starts in a woman’s reproductive organs. There are five main types of gynecologic cancer.

What Are the Symptoms?

Signs and symptoms are not the same for everyone, and each gynecologic cancer has its own signs and symptoms.

What Can I Do to Reduce My Risk?

It is important to recognize the warning signs of gynecologic cancer and learn if there are things you can do to lower your risk.

How Are Gynecologic Cancers Treated?

Gynecologic cancers are treated in several ways. It depends on the kind of cancer and how far it has spread.

Family History and Cancer

A family history of breast, ovarian, uterine, and colorectal cancers can increase a woman’s risk for developing these cancers. Learn how to collect your family health history and what to do if cancer runs in your family.