How to Reduce Gynecological Cancer Risks

Gynecological cancers affect women and involve the female reproductive system. These can include: cancers of the vulva, cervix, uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes and vagina. Most women are at some risk for gynecological cancers, with risks increasing based on age, family history and lifestyle.



This article will provide some information on gynecological cancers, including early warning signs for early detection in order to reduce the risks.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

How to Determine Your Risk

1. 1

   OVARIAN CANCER is a common gynecological cancer. Approximately 1 out of 70 women will be at risk of developing this type of cancer. The cancer is usually cyst-like in form and affects one or both of the ovaries. The risk is reduced in women who take birth control pills or have undergone a hysterectomy or tubal sterilization procedures.

2. 2

   The risk of developing Ovarian cancer increases in women who are over age 60, have never had children and have a mother or sister who has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

3. 3

   CERVICAL CANCER is a common cancer that is caused by the Human Papillomavirus or HPV. This virus is usually transmitted during sexual intercourse and can cause cervical cancer in certain women.

4. 4

   The risk for developing Cervical cancer increases if you do not have a regular Pap test or if you have a history of HPV infection. Other risk factors include sex with multiple sexual partners and smoking. Cervical cancer can be greatly reduced if you have a regular Pap test and/or an HPV test.

5. 5

   ENDOMETRIAL or UTERINE CANCER is the most common gynecological cancer in women. This type of cancer mostly begins in the lining of the endometrium or the uterus. If this cancer is detected early, it can be cured with a hysterectomy procedure.

6. 6

   Risk factors for developing Uterine cancer can include being over age 50, diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure. Women who are on hormonal replacement therapy and are not taking progestin will increase their risks for developing this type of cancer.

7. 7

   Visit your doctor at least every three years for a Pap test and pelvic exam. You may also be given an HPV test depending on your age and Pap test results. Tell your doctor if you have irregular bleeding, spotting or discharge, especially if you have entered into menopause. There are various office procedures that can be performed that will help the doctor make an evaluation.

Tips & Warnings

• There are certain things you can do to reduce the risks of getting these cancers, including reducing the number of sexual partners, using condoms during intercourse and delaying the onset of sexual activity.
• Stop smoking. There is strong evidence linking smoking to increasing the risk of developing certain gynecological cancers.
• This article is not a substitute for seeking medical advice from your own medical doctor or health care professional.

Resources

• Jewell Productions TV
• National Institutes of Health
• National Cancer Institute

on 8/10/2008 Great information.

on 8/9/2008 WOW! I did not know that about women who had never had children. Thanks, doc.