Gynecologic Cancer

Gynecologic cancer is any cancer that starts in a woman’s reproductive organs. This includes cervical cancer, ovarian cancer and uterine cancer, as well as vaginal and vulvar cancers. The only facility of its kind in the region, The Women’s Cancer Center provides integrated, multidisciplinary care from the moment you walk in through your survivorship.

Gynecologic oncology physicians at The University of Kansas Cancer Center are experts in screening, early detection and treatment of gynecologic cancers. Our specialists are dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care for patients with gynecologic cancers. Our board-certified, fellowship-trained specialists provide the most advanced technologies and techniques available.

The care we provide is not one size fits all. Your gynecologic cancer treatment will be tailored to meet your particular needs. Several factors play a role in your treatment, including the stage, location and type of cancer, along with your age and overall health. Cancer treatment also varies depending on whether the goal of your treatment is to cure the cancer, keep it from spreading or relieve the symptoms it causes.

We treat several types of gynecologic cancer:

• Cervical cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Uterine/endometrial cancer
• Vaginal and vulvar cancers

We encourage our patients to take part in clinical research trials. Many of these studies are initiated by our own gynecologic cancer investigators, who design and implement the research as we work to provide the most advanced gynecologic cancer care. Through these trials, we evaluate potential new ways of preventing, diagnosing and treating ovarian and other gynecologic cancers.

Gynecologic cancer resources and support

A cancer diagnosis can leave you feeling stunned and overwhelmed. But at The University of Kansas Cancer Center, you don’t have to navigate your cancer journey alone. From initial diagnosis until your treatment plan is established, our nurse navigators guide patients through initial testing and appointments, answering questions and providing emotional support every step of the way. Your navigator then remains an additional resource for you throughout your cancer journey.

Online resources can also help you understand more about your gynecologic cancer diagnosis and possible treatment options:

• Gynecologic Cancer Foundation
• National Cervical Cancer Coalition
• Gilda’s Club Kansas City
• Turning Point
• Foundation for Women’s Cancer
• American Cancer Society
• National Cancer Institute (part of the National Institutes of Health)

Surviving cancer is a lifelong process and regular appointments are an important part of follow-up care. We believe you should receive the same high-quality, personalized and comprehensive care in survivorship that you receive during cancer treatment.