Gynecological cancers
Find a cancer specialistLearning about a gynecological cancer diagnosis can be a stressful time for you and your loved ones. Our program offers hope and compassion to help guide you through treatment by considering the whole you. We provide leading-edge care delivered with heart, because cancer isn’t who you are – it’s what you’re fighting.
What types of cancer does a gynecologic oncologist treat?
Our experts treat all types of cancer that affect the female reproductive system, including:
- Uterine cancer: More than 13,000 women in the U.S. die from uterine cancer each year. No screening tests currently exist for uterine cancers.
- Ovarian cancer: Ovarian cancer claims the lives of more than 12,000 women in the U.S. each year. We recommend a yearly gynecological examination to track changes that may indicate ovarian cancer.
- Cervical cancer: More than 4,000 women in the U.S. die from cervical cancer each year. The number of deaths has drastically decreased because of the effectiveness of the Pap smear screening test.
- Vaginal & vulvar cancers: Vaginal and vulvar cancers combined take the lives of more than 2,000 women each year in the U.S. Annual gynecological exams may help detect these cancers early.
When should you see a gynecologic oncologist?
You may need to see a gynecologic oncologist if your OB-GYN recommends it. Or you may seek one out if you have a family history of gynecologic cancers or notice new symptoms that you’re worried about. You may also consult with them about your risk factors or possible prevention strategies.
Use our online search tool to find a doctor near you and request an appointment.
Complementary care for gynecological cancer
We treat you, not just the cancer. When you’re undergoing gynecologic cancer treatment, you need extra support, so we offer these types of complementary care:
- Acupuncture, Reiki, massage therapy, and aromatherapy to help with the side effects of cancer treatment
- Monthly support groups to ground you and give you opportunities to explore shared experiences
- Palliative care and pain treatment to address the side effects of cancer treatment
Research about gynecologic oncology
We deliver state-of-the-art care because of our emphasis on research. The more we learn, the more we can apply advanced gynecologic oncology treatments that help women survive a gynecological cancer diagnosis. Because of our commitment to research, you can take advantage of cancer clinical trials, which deliver care that isn’t widely available in Wisconsin.
Treatments for gynecologic cancer
Aurora’s gynecologic oncologists offer state-of-the-art gynecological cancer treatments, including hysterectomy by laparoscopy and robotic surgery. We also provide:
- A full spectrum of nonsurgical cancer treatments including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy
- Cancer rehabilitation to counteract the negative effects of cancer treatment, such as weakness, stiffness, or fatigue
- A fertility evaluation with Aurora’s IVF and fertility experts to help preserve fertility for people undergoing gynecologic oncology treatment
- Precision medicine for cancer, which offers hope and a new option for women with advanced gynecologic cancers
- Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), an innovative combination of surgery and chemo. The surgery starts by removing all visible tumors. Then a heated chemotherapy solution is placed in the open cavity to treat any remaining cancer cells. Then the chemo medication is drained, and the incision is closed.
Comprehensive gynecologic cancer care
Aurora Health Care has a world-class team of gynecologic oncology specialists who expertly treat gynecologic cancers. Our team works with you to create a plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Highlights of our program at Aurora include:
- Subspecialty expertise: Cancer care requires a strong partnership among many health specialists. Our program features a weekly meeting with all doctors involved in gynecologic cancer care. This all-hands-on-deck approach delivers better outcomes for you.
- Convenience: Every member of your treatment team stays up-to-date on your progress, thanks to Aurora’s electronic health record. And because we offer outreach clinics throughout the state, you may be able to receive follow-up care closer to home.
- Support: Aurora offers you the support of a nurse navigator. This person serves as your partner, helping ensure that every test and procedure is completed so you don’t miss a step on your road to recovery from gynecological cancer.
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