What is Gynecological Cancer?

Gynecological cancer is a cancer that starts in a women’s reproductive organ. There are five different types of Gynecological Cancer that are more common, which are Cervical, Ovarian, Uterine, Vaginal and Vulvar. Each type has their own types of signs, symptoms and risk factors. There are other types as well that are not as common but do exist and they are fallopian and peritoneal. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have great information on each of these.  Check out the CDC Brochure to see more detailed information.

With September being Gynecological Cancer Awareness month, we would like to educate all women of all ages. Every age is vulnerable to cancer, so everyone needs to know the possibilities and the signs. 

There are many preventative measures a woman can take such as annual screenings through her OBGYN. Annual screenings will include a pelvic exam, PAP smear and possibly other lab work such as HPV and/or STD labs. Women’s Healthcare knowledge should be stressed to all women of all ages so we are all informed of the different possibilities for our bodies. Women should know their bodies so they can detect any slight changes. These changes if addressed early by the OBGYN plus then you could be treated and prevent further problems. 

Always be alert of your body and keep a log to address with your OBGYN. Knowledge is everything in Women’s Healthcare. If you have been determined to have a type of cancer, there are many options available now. Your OBGYN would be your best source for helping you decide your next steps in both prevention, screening and treatments.

J. Harley Barrow, Jr., M.D. is an OBGYN in the North Central Arkansas area with great compassion for women’s healthcare. Review The Center For Women’s website for more information on his practice. To make an appointment to see him or his nurse practitioner Amanda G. Thornton, A.P.N., call (870) 425-7300 or visit your portal to request an appointment.