FAQs
Here you will find important information on gynecologic cancers.
| What is a colposcopy?
A colposcopy is performed when your physician wants to take a closer look at your cervix. It is performed using a colposcope, which is inserted in the vagina and used to visualize the cervix, aiding in diagnosis. |
| What is Gynecologic Oncology? Gynecologic Oncology is the branch of medicine involved with the screening, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of tumors and cancers of the female reproductive system: the ovaries, the uterus lining and muscle wall, the cervix, the vagina and the outside area, the vulva. A Gynecologic Oncologist is a specialized obstetrician/gynecologist who has completed an extra several years of approved intensive training at a major cancer center performing advanced cancer care combining all aspects of gynecologic surgery with radiation and chemotherapy, individualized for each patient. By virtue of the extensive experience in gynecologic, oncologic, urologic, gastrointestinal and reconstructive surgery along with chemotherapy administration and management, the gynecologic oncologist is the physician today who can provide the most comprehensive care for women. Dr. Dotters and Dr. Garrett have developed advanced laparoscopic skills and to provide the appropriate gynecologic and gynecologic cancer surgery with the smallest incisions, the least discomfort and scarring, the shortest hospital stay and least disability from work for their patients. |
| What is the most common gynecologic cancer?
Endometrial cancer is the most common cancer of the female reproductive sytem, and develops in the lining of the uterus. It is usually curable when detected early. |
| My mother had ovarian cancer. Am I at an increased risk?
Risk factors for ovarian cancer include women who are older, have never been pregnant, have a family history of ovarian and breast cancer, are Caucasian, have had breast cancer, and had early menses or late menopause. Studies have shown that the risk of ovarian cancer can be lowered 40 to 60 percent with the use of birth control pills. |
| What kind of cancer does the Pap test screen for?
The Pap test screens for cancer of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that opens to the vagina. Cervical cancer may develop in women who have been infected with the human papilloma virus (HPV), a sexually transmitted virus. |
