Gynaecological cancer is a term used to describe all the types of cancer that can occur in or on a woman’s genitals or reproductive organs. These include cancers of the vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. Dr Motsema has a special interest in the primary prevention of gynaecological cancers.
Gynaecological cancer screenings
Prevention is always better than cure, which is why we recommend that women go for regular cancer screenings. How often you should have gynaecological cancer screenings and which tests you should take, depend on your health history and age:
- It is recommended that women aged 21–29 years have a Pap smear every three years. HPV testing is not recommended at this age.
- It is recommended that women aged 30–65 years should have a Pap test and an HPV test every 5 years. Women this age can also have a Pap test alone every 3 years.
Types of gynaecological cancers
Cervical cancer
Cervical cancer is a form of cancer that begins in the cervix. Luckily, cervical cancer is one of the most preventable types of gynaecological cancers. Since most cervical cancers are caused by HPV infection, preventing HPV infections can also help prevent cervical cancer. There is a vaccination which can protect against HPV, reducing your risk of both cancer and infection.
Ovarian cancer
Women have two ovaries found on each side of the womb (uterus). Ovarian cancer develops when cells in the ovary multiply and grow very quickly, thereby damaging healthy tissue. Symptoms include abdominal bloating, discomfort in the pelvic area, changes in bowel habits, weight loss, and a frequent need to urinate.
Vaginal cancer
Vaginal cancer is one of the rarest types of gynaecological cancers and usually affects women over 50 years of age. In most cases, HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection causes vaginal cancer. Symptoms include the presence of an obvious mass, abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge and pain during and after intercourse.
Vulvar cancer
Vulvar cancer is a form of cancer that occurs on the outer surface area of the genitalia. The vulva is the area of skin that surrounds the vagina and urethra, including the clitoris and labia. Vulvar cancer commonly forms as a sore or lump on the vulva that causes itching.
Uterine cancer
Uterine cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the uterus. Although anyone can get uterine cancer, some factors which increase the risk of uterine cancer are diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and the use of estrogen without progesterone. Uterine cancer is most often detected at an early stage because it frequently produces abnormal vaginal bleeding. If uterine cancer is discovered early, removing the uterus surgically often cures the cancer.
