Many gynecologic cancers are treatable, especially when caught early. The challenge is that some symptoms can be mild or mistaken for normal changes that occur with aging, menopause or other common conditions.
While most symptoms are caused by non-cancerous conditions, new or persistent changes should never be ignored. WashU Medicine gynecologic oncologists like Molly Morton, MD, help evaluate symptoms, diagnose gynecologic cancers and pre-cancerous conditions. For patients diagnosed with cancer, Dr. Morton provides specialized cancer care at Siteman Cancer Center, based at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and WashU Medicine, and develops an individualized treatment plan for each patient.
Symptoms that deserve medical attention
Everyone experiences occasional pelvic discomfort or digestive changes from time to time; however, you should contact a healthcare provider if you experience symptoms that are new, persistent, worsening or unusual for you.
These may include:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge
- Bleeding after menopause
- Bleeding after intercourse
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Ongoing bloating
- Feeling full quickly or having difficulty eating
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
- Genital skin changes or a sore that doesn’t heal
- Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
These symptoms are often caused by conditions other than cancer, but they should be evaluated if they continue.
Ovarian cancer symptoms can be easy to overlook
Unlike some cancers, ovarian cancer does not have an effective screening test and is not easily detected on exam. Instead, recognizing potential warning signs is especially important. Because these symptoms can resemble digestive or urinary conditions, many patients delay seeking care. If symptoms are frequent, persistent or represent a change from your normal health, it’s important to be evaluated by a specialist.
What happens at your first gynecologic oncology appointment?
Many patients feel anxious before seeing a gynecologic oncologist. Knowing what to expect can help. A first visit typically includes:
- A discussion of symptoms
- Review of your medical and surgical history
- Review of medications
- A discussion of family health history
- An abdominal and pelvic examination
Depending on your symptoms, your physician may recommend additional testing such as bloodwork, ultrasound, CT or MRI imaging or a biopsy. Not every patient needs every test, and your evaluation will be tailored to your specific situation.
How to prepare for your visit
You can help your healthcare team by coming prepared with:
- A list of your symptoms and when they began
- Questions you would like answered
- An updated medication list
- Family history of cancer
- A trusted family member or friend, if desired
If you’re nervous about the examination, let your care team know. They will work with you to make the visit as comfortable as possible.
How long does it take to receive a diagnosis?
The timeline depends on the type of testing needed. Some laboratory tests and imaging results may be available within a few days. If a biopsy or surgery is required, final pathology results may take several weeks. Often, your general OB GYN may start this workup before seeing a specialist.
For ovarian cancer, imaging and bloodwork can sometimes suggest that a mass is concerning, but confirming a diagnosis usually requires examining tissue under a microscope or surgery.
Taking charge of your gynecologic health
Staying current on cervical cancer screening well-woman appointments remains an important part of preventive care. If you have a family history of ovarian, breast, uterine, pancreatic, prostate or colorectal cancer, talk with your healthcare provider, as genetic counseling or testing may be appropriate.
Most importantly, don’t ignore symptoms that persist or interfere with your daily life. Early evaluation can provide answers, peace of mind and, when needed, timely treatment.
WashU Medicine Gynecologic Oncology
WashU Medicine gynecologic oncologists provide comprehensive care for patients with gynecologic cancers and pre-cancerous conditions. The team also offers gynecologic cancer risk counseling, genetic testing and personalized risk assessment for individuals with a family history of cancer.
To schedule an appointment with WashU Medicine gynecologic oncology, ask your primary care provider or general gynecologist for a referral and call 314-362-3181 or visit our website.