Don’t be discouraged, as early detection significantly increases the chances of recovery, primarily through surgical intervention.
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Image of a 56-day-old fetus (Photo: washingtondc) |
Most symptoms indicating gynecological cancer are often vague and can be mistaken for other benign conditions. Most of these diseases tend to progress locally over a considerable period.
Below are timely management strategies for cancers of the cervix, vagina, vulva, or ovaries.
1. Cervical Cancer
– Commonly occurs in women aged 35-55.
– Warning signs include increased and foul-smelling vaginal discharge, possibly mixed with blood.
– Cervical cancer often begins with persistent bleeding.
Management:
– First, a Pap smear should be conducted. Doctors will provide test results within about 10 days.
– An ultrasound is necessary to assess the condition of the cervix. There are two types of ultrasound: a standard abdominal ultrasound or a transvaginal ultrasound (for married women).
– If cancer is suspected, doctors will perform a colposcopy and take a sample from the cervix for a biopsy to accurately diagnose the disease.
– If cancer is confirmed, the doctor will consult on treatment options, considering the patient’s age and circumstances, which may include preserving the uterus and ovaries or performing a hysterectomy.
2. Vulvar and Vaginal Cancer
– This cancer is often seen in Asian women around the age of 50. Early symptoms are usually unclear, making it easy for patients to overlook.
– As the disease progresses, it can form warty growths, ulcers, or discharge containing pus or blood.
– If a tumor invades deeply, pressing on the vulvar nerve, patients may experience pain, fatigue, frequent urination, painful urination, and constipation.
– You will be referred for blood tests by your doctor.
– Additionally, specific tests are needed to check for abnormal cells in the vulva or vagina.
– A thorough examination of the vulva and vagina will provide a more accurate diagnosis.
– Surgery is the primary method for managing vaginal cancer. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy may also be necessary. Treatment options depend on the type of cancer, its location, and size.
3. Ovarian Tumors – The Silent Killer
– 70% of women with ovarian cancer go undiagnosed until it is too late.
– If you notice symptoms such as discomfort in the lower abdomen, pelvic pressure, unusual bleeding from the vulva, or sudden weight changes, consider ovarian cancer and consult a doctor for examination and testing.
– You will undergo an abdominal ultrasound or transvaginal ultrasound to evaluate the ovaries. Following this, your doctor will recommend blood tests.
– If necessary, doctors may perform X-rays or a CT scan of the abdomen. This approach can be valuable in certain specific cases.
Dr. DUNG HẠNH
