Oncologist
Gynecologic oncologists
Specialists:
Gynecologic oncologists are specially trained to treat cancers of the reproductive organs in women. This includes cancers of the ovaries, vagina, uterus, cervix, and vulva. Gynecologic oncologists work with patients to diagnose their cancers and develop the best treatment plan.
Why do you need to see them?
You should make an appointment with your regular OB/GYN if you have symptoms such as:
- A sore in your vaginal area that doesn’t seem to heal
- An unusual amount of vaginal discharge or bleeding, especially after you’ve started menopause
- Constant bloating or indigestion
- Changes in the pattern of your bladder or bowel movements
- Pain in your pelvic area
- A lump that you can see and feel or that causes you pain
Your regular OB/GYN may refer you to a gynecologic oncologist for more testing and possible treatment. A gynecologic oncologist will have the kind of experience and technical skills needed to diagnose and treat cancer in these areas.
What do they do?
Gynecologic oncologists’ main objective is to find tumours in a person’s reproductive organs and to see if the disease has metastasized to other areas as well. This helps them ensure that patients receive the proper treatment in a timely manner.
Since gynecologic oncologists typically work with other doctors, they have to be good at collaborating so that everyone is on the same page regarding the patient’s care. They also need to be able to communicate with patients about the different cancer treatment options and help guide them toward the best decision for their condition.
A gynecologic oncologist might recommend:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Hormone therapy
Physician consultation is a good opportunity and you should be prepared for it.
- Carry all necessary medical records for the discussion. It helps in better understanding your heart condition and avoids repetition of diagnostic tests.
- Make sure you discuss your past medical history, surgical history, family history, and medications that you are taking.
- Discuss about your lifestyle habits, dietary habits and also about your profession. Your lifestyle and nature of job may be associated with the risk for cardiac diseases.