The National Cancer Institute estimates that this year alone, over 108,000 women will be diagnosed with a form of gynecologic cancer. September is Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month, an opportunity to raise awareness about prevention and offer support to those currently battling gynecologic cancer.

 There are 5 main types of gynecological cancer, and each comes with different symptoms, risk factors, and prevention strategies:

• Cervical cancer starts in the cervix, or the low, narrow end of the uterus, and is often associated with HPV infection. Most cervical cancer cases are caused by various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common infection that’s passed by sexual contact. Typically, the body’s immune system can prevent the virus from harm. For a small percentage of people, the virus can survive for years. This delay can cause cervical cells to change into cancer cells. One way to reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer is regular screenings with your primary care provider or gynecologist and receiving the HPV vaccine that protects against HPV infection.
• Ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries, which can be found on opposite sides of the uterus. Some forms can also start in the fallopian tubes or the membrane lining of your abdomen and pelvis.
• Uterine cancer starts in the uterus, the pear-shaped organ in a woman’s pelvis. Uterine cancer includes 2 different types of cancer:
  • Endometrial cancer happens when malignant cells form in the endometrium tissues.
  • Uterine sarcoma is a rare type of uterine cancer that happens when malignant cells form in the muscles or connective tissue of the uterus.
• Vaginal cancer begins in the vagina, which is the tube-like channel connecting the outside of the body and the bottom of the uterus.
• Vulvar cancer begins in the outer part of female genital organs. This type of cancer often starts as a bump or sore on the vulva that can cause itching and discomfort.

Since gynecologic cancer represents any cancer that begins in a woman’s reproductive organs, any woman is at risk for developing gynecologic cancer. However, there are certain factors that can exacerbate the likelihood of developing cancer:

• Genetics are the strongest risk factor for ovarian cancer. 1 in 5 cases is attributed to mutations within susceptibility genes which are passed down from generation to generation.
• Obesity can have adverse effects on the lining of the uterus, including excess estrogen production and inflammation.
• For most gynecologic cancers, the risk is highest at ages 60 and up.
• A current or past HPV infection has a strong connection with the development of gynecologic cancer, especially cervical cancer.

All types of gynecological cancers present varying symptoms, which can be difficult to recognize and distinguish. Although it is important to familiarize yourself with the signs and symptoms associated with gynecological cancer, it is equally as important for women to listen to their own bodies and realize when something doesn’t feel right. Here are some general symptoms to look out for:

• Pelvic pain
• Abnormal bleeding
• Abdominal bloating
• Changes in menstrual cycle
• Pain during intercourse
• Changes in vaginal appearance

If you are experiencing any of the above changes, it is important to reach out to a healthcare professional to make sure you receive appropriate and prompt care for your symptoms.

Even if you don’t have symptoms, it is still important to have regular wellness exams and screenings to maintain good gynecological health. It is recommended for women ages 21-29 to have a pap test done every three years. For women ages 30 and up, it is recommended to have a pap test and an HPV test every 5 years. The screenings are likely to stop after age 65 if you are considered low-risk.

There is good news for people looking to take preventative measures! The Gardasil 9 vaccine is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for people aged 9 and older. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests routine HPV vaccination at age 11 or 12. People younger than age 15 can be vaccinated with two doses, 6 to 12 months apart. The ideal age for vaccination is before a person is sexually active.

Once a person is infected with HPV, the vaccine may not be as effective. That’s because the vaccine’s goal is to prevent a new infection. If a person has the virus, the vaccine may not help the body clear out the vaccine.

The CDC suggests catch-up HPV vaccinations for all people through age 26 who aren’t fully vaccinated. The FDA approved the use of Gardasil 9 for males and females ages 9 to 45. If between the ages of 27 to 45, discuss your risks with your healthcare team. Together you can decide if you should get the HPV vaccine.

It is best to talk to your healthcare provider about your screening test results in more detail to fully understand your risk of developing cervical cancer and the next steps. If you don’t have a primary care provider or would like to get set up with seeing a gynecologist, the Obstetrics & Gynecology team at Southwest Health is excited to welcome its newest member, Mary Beth Wampfler, MD!

The OB/GYN providers at Southwest Health specialize in providing comprehensive care to patients of all ages, covering a wide range of needs from routine check-ups to specialized treatments. If you’re looking for a trusted provider who truly cares about your well-being, call (608) 342-0986. to schedule your next appointment at Southwest Health.

Covering preventative and routine care, family planning, and conception, as well as advanced gynecological and surgical care, the Obstetrics & Gynecology team provides experience, respect, and a genuine passion for understanding individual needs. To make an appointment with Dr. Steven Bujewski, Dr. Mary Beth Wampfler, or Dr. Melissa Carr, call Southwest Health at (608) 342-0986.