Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
Cancer is the uncontrolled growth of cells in the body. In females, cancer of the uterus, cervix, ovaries and breast are the most common. Breast of course is one of the most common ones and has a good chance of recovery as well. However, here we will be discussing more about the cancers of female reproductive organs. Gynaecological cancer is any cancer that starts in a woman’s reproductive organs. The following are the most common gynae cancers:
- Cervical Cancer – Cancer starts in the cervix
- Ovarian Cancer – Cancer starts in the ovaries
- Uterine Cancer – Cancer starts in Uterus
The problem with gynae cancers is that apart from cervical cancer there is no test to screen female cancers. Cervical cancer can be screened using a pap smear test which can be done in OPD. Since there are no tests to screen for female cancer, it becomes imperative to notice the symptoms and consider them as warning signs.
Symptoms of Female Cancers
- Unusual Vaginal Bleeding
- Bleeding after Menopause
- Pain in the Lower Abdomen or Back
- Bloating
- Painful Sexual Intercourse
- Foul Vaginal Discharge
- Itching or burning of the Vulva
Diagnosing Gynaecological Cancers
The best way to diagnose any disease in the body is to notice any changes that are happening in the body and get yourself examined by a gynaecologist. Ultrasound is generally the first investigation a gynaecologist will advise you along with some blood tests. Advanced diagnostic investigations may include a CT scan MRI or a biopsy. Once the cancer is confirmed next step is to find out the staging of the cancer which is done through a whole-body PET CT scan which uses nuclear medicine and molecular imaging to see the spread of the disease.
Treatment
If the case is diagnosed in the early stage then laparoscopic surgery is the main stay and the gold standard for most of the gynaecological cancers. In female cancers, we generally plan to go for a hysterectomy. At Global Womens Clinic, Gurgaon we prefer to go for laparoscopic hysterectomy in most of the cases unless contraindicated. There are various benefits of laparoscopic surgeries as compared to open surgeries like faster recovery, less complication, shorter hospital stay, no scar and lesser blood loss. Post surgery the removed organ is sent to a lab for biopsy. Generally, post-surgery patients would need chemotherapy or radiotherapy depending upon the type of cancer.
Most gynae cancers are treatable if diagnosed in time and for that to happen every female should be aware of her body. Any changes or any sign should not be ignored and immediate consultation with a gynaecologist should be taken.
Doctor Profile
Dr Amita Shah is a leading gynaecologist in Gurgaon with vast experience in treating all major and minor female problems. She is currently heading the Obs & Gynae department at Apollo Cradle and Miracles Mediclinic Gurgaon. For more information or an appointment with Dr Amita Shah please call +91-8800188335 or email info@amitashah.com
