Gynecological Cancer Doctor in Kolkata
Gynecological cancer refers to a group of cancers that occur in the female reproductive system, affecting organs like the cervix, ovaries, uterus, vagina, and vulva. These cancers can sometimes cause serious health hazards, but early detection and proper treatment can improve results. The gynaecological oncologist in Kolkata specializes in diagnosing and treating gynaecological cancers, offering patients expert care and patient-based treatment plans. Let us know about gynaecological cancer in detail.
Types of Gynaecological Cancer
There are several types of gynaecological cancer which can affect different parts of your reproductive system. Let us explore its types: There are several types, each affecting different parts of the reproductive system:
Cervical Cancer
This type of cancer can be noticed in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is necessary to undergo regular screenings through Pap smears to detect cervical cancer early.
Ovarian Cancer
This cancer begins in the ovaries and is one of the more difficult gynecological cancers to detect at an early stage. It requires specialized care and guidance from an ovarian oncologist in Kolkata.
Endometrial (Uterine) Cancer
This cancer develops in the lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium. It is the most common type of uterine cancer.
Vaginal and Vulvar Cancer
Although rarer, these cancers affect the external genital organs. They are usually slow-growing but can become aggressive if not detected early.
Signs and Symptoms of Gynecological Cancer
Gynecological cancer can be life-saving if you can recognise its signs early. These symptoms can vary depending on the type and stage, some common ones to look out for include:
Unusual vaginal bleeding
This is particularly common in endometrial and cervical cancers, where bleeding can occur outside of regular menstrual periods or after menopause.
Pelvic pain
Constant pain or pressure in the lower abdomen can be a sign, particularly with ovarian or endometrium cancer.
Bloating
A consistent feeling of bloating, especially when accompanied by other digestive changes, can indicate ovarian cancer.
Pain during intercourse
This symptom can sometimes be associated with vaginal or cervical cancer.
Sudden weight loss or fatigue
While these can occur in many types of cancer, they are often present in advanced stages.
If you notice any of these symptoms, consult the doctor for gynecological cancer treatment in Kolkata.
Diagnosis of Gynaecological Cancer
If you can detect gynaecological cancer early, it will help you to get proper treatment. Let us discuss the common diagnostic methods:
Pelvic Examination
A thorough pelvic exam can help identify abnormalities in the reproductive organs.
Imaging Tests
Ultrasounds, MRIs, and CT scans help visualize the reproductive organs and detect tumours.
Biopsy
A tissue sample may be taken from the affected area to confirm the presence of cancer.
Pap Smear and HPV Testing
These tests are used to detect precancerous changes and HPV infections, which can lead to cervical cancer. Regular screenings are recommended.
Causes and Risk Factors of Gynaecological Cancer
Sometimes the early causes of gynaecological cancer can remain unnoticed but knowing several risk factors can help you to get better results.
Age
The risk of gynaecological cancers generally increases with age. For instance, most cases of endometrium cancer occur in postmenopausal women.
HPV Infection
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a leading cause of cervical cancer. Vaccination against HPV can significantly reduce this risk.
Family History
Women with a family history of ovarian or endometrial cancer have a higher risk, especially if BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations are present.
Obesity
Excess body weight can increase the risk of endometrial cancer.
Hormonal Factors
Extended use of estrogen-only hormone replacement therapy, or an early onset of menstruation and late menopause, can increase the risk of cancer.
Treatment Options of Gynaecological Cancer
After diagnosis, you can explore several treatment approaches for gynaecological cancers. The treatment plan largely depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. The doctor offers advanced gynecological cancer treatment in Kolkata, utilizing various modern therapies and treatment procedures, including:
Chemotherapy
In this method, several drugs are used to kill cancer cells or diminish tumours. It is commonly used in ovarian cancer treatment and can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan for other gynaecological cancers.
Radiation Therapy
High-energy rays are used to target and destroy cancer cells. Radiation is often used in combination with chemotherapy to prevent the reappearance of cancer.
Targeted Therapy
This approach uses drugs or other substances to specifically attack cancer cells without harming normal cells. It is often used in advanced endometrial and ovarian cancer treatment.
Immunotherapy
A cutting-edge treatment option, immunotherapy works by strengthening the body’s natural immune response to cancer cells. This is an emerging therapy for gynaecological cancers and has shown promise in certain clinical trials.
If you seek expert care, consult the gynecological oncologist in Kolkata, providing treatment plans according to the patient’s needs. By staying informed and proactive, women can take control of their health and improve their chances of a positive result when facing gynecological cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can gynaecologic cancer be prevented?
Preventing gynaecologic cancer involves several proactive measures. Regular screenings, such as Pap smears and HPV vaccinations can significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking also contributes to lowering the risk of various gynaecological cancers.
How does gynaecologic cancer start?
Gynaecologic cancer starts when cells in the reproductive organs undergo abnormal changes, leading to uncontrolled growth. These changes can be triggered by various factors, including genetic mutations, hormonal imbalances, and exposure to certain viruses, such as HPV. Early detection through regular screenings can help identify these changes before they develop into cancer.
How to check for gynaecological cancer?
To check for gynaecological cancer, doctors recommend regular screenings such as Pap smears and pelvic exams for cervical cancer, as well as HPV testing. Other diagnostic tools include transvaginal ultrasounds and biopsies for ovarian and endometrial cancers. Women experiencing unusual symptoms should consult a gynaecologist for a thorough evaluation.
Can Gynaecological cancer be cured?
Yes, gynaecological cancer can often be cured, especially when detected early. Treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy can be effective in managing and potentially eliminating the cancer. The prognosis varies depending on the type of gynaecological cancer, its stage, and individual health factors.
Who is at risk for gynaecological cancer?
Several factors can increase the risk of gynaecological cancer, including age, family history of cancer, and certain genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2. Women who have never had children, those with a history of endometriosis, and individuals with a weak immune system are also at higher risk. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as smoking and obesity can contribute to the likelihood of developing these cancers.