GYNECOLOGICAL TUMORS

The most common gynecological tumors are found in the cervix (the part of the uterus that projects into the vagina), but growths in the uterus are also common. There has been some controversy about the factors that contribute to the high incidence of such tumors. It appears that numerous pregnancies and numerous sexual partners may make women more prone to cervical cancer.

Cancer of the uterus appears to be somewhat more common in women who take female hormone (estrogen) medications after menopause, even though there are many positive aspects to the use of these medications. The data are conflicting, but it seems that the use of estrogen medications alone slightly increases the chances of developing uterine cancer. If a small amount of progesterone is added to the estrogen, the risk seems to decrease a great deal. Controversy continues as to whether women should take these medications. Medical opinion has been shifting steadily toward recommending the use of combination estrogen and progesterone after menopause to decrease the risk of osteoporosis (weak bones).

Having a Pap test of the cervix every one or two years is an important way to decrease the chance of developing cancer of the cervix or uterus. The Pap smear can indicate the disease in the early stages, when treatment is simpler. If a malignancy is found, local surgical removal of a small part of the cervix or the use of radiation, and recently the use of locally applied chemotherapeutic agents, may be of value. In more advanced stages removal of the whole uterus (hysterectomy) may be required. The results are usually good, especially if the disease is found early. Even in advanced cases some improvement in symptoms and relief of discomfort can result from a combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Cancer of the uterus may first show itself with bleeding after menopause, an important symptom that should never be overlooked. If you have been taking estrogen hormones alone for menopausal symptoms, bleeding during therapy or between cycles of drugs should not occur. Sometimes if progesterone is added to the estrogen, there may be some bleeding between drug cycles. However, if you have never experienced bleeding with these medications you should see a physician if bleeding develops at a later date. Do not assume that the symptom, especially if it occurs in the midst of a cycle, is due to hormone therapy. Bleeding of any type should always be reported to your physician.

The ovaries can also be affected by cancer, and growths are sometimes found during routine gynecological examinations. For this reason, it is important to have a pelvic examination every year or two even after you have stopped menstruating. The first symptom may be a feeling of fullness in the lower part of the abdomen.

Treatment includes surgery to remove the tumor, and some women require radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The response to treatment can be good. Although the tumor may return, a further course of treatment can be initiated.

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This entry was posted on Friday, March 27th, 2009 at 5:30 am and is filed under Men's Health-Erectile Dysfunction. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

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