Cancer Screening Specialist

What types of cancer are unique to women?

There are four types of gynecological cancer unique to women. These are:

Cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cells of the cervix, located in the lower part of the uterus. 

Today, thanks to vaccines and early screenings, cervical cancer is one of the least common types of gynecological cancer in the United States.

Endometrial cancer

Endometrial cancer grows in the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium. Even though this is one of the most common types of gynecological cancer, most women discover they have it only after they experience abnormal bleeding.

When you catch it early, your chances of recovery are high. 

Ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is both rare and deadly. It most often appears when women are in their 50s, but you can develop it before the age of 35. When you catch it early, you have about a 95% recovery rate. 

Unfortunately, ovarian cancer mimics the symptoms of lesser ailments, like irritable bowel syndrome, PMS, Crohn's's disease, or bladder dysfunction, and about 70% of people with ovarian cancer in the U.S. don’t discover it until it’s advanced.

Vulvar cancer

Vulvar cancer is cancer of the labia. This rare cancer usually appears in women in their 70s and 80s, who may not catch it early because they attend gynecological exams less often.

How can I lower my risk of cancer?

To lower your risk of cancer, start by getting regular cancer screenings. Pap smears and pelvic exams help doctors detect changes early. The earlier your doctor detects cancerous or precancerous cells, the more likely is your recovery.

You can also lower your risk of cancer by leading a healthy lifestyle featuring choices like:

• A low-fat diet
• Oral contraceptives 
• Safe sex

You’re also less likely to develop cancer if you visit your doctor the minute you experience symptoms like abnormal bleeding.

Also, for protection against most kinds of HPV, an STD that can lead to cervical cancer, get vaccinated between the ages of 9 and 26. 

What is a Pap smear?

A Pap test is a quick procedure in which your OB/GYN takes a spatula or small brush, and gently scrapes away a few cells from your cervix. Then, they look at the cells under a microscope to see if they’ve changed at all, or if they’ve developed cervical cancer.

Pap smears can also reveal if you’re suffering from inflammation or an infection.

The idea of cancer can freeze you with fear, but the best way to avoid it and overcome it is by making regular appointments with the team at Beach Obstetrics and Gynecology. Act now to secure your future. Book an appointment today online or over the phone.