Advanced gynecological cancer care

When you choose cancer centers and gynecologic (GYN) oncology clinics at Ascension sites of care, you get a care team that is part of a national network. Our experienced cancer doctors share best practices and the latest in female reproductive cancer treatment and research – bringing the best of cancer care to you. Every appointment with your oncologist or women’s health care team starts with a compassionate conversation. Your doctor answers your questions and gets to know you. So, you get a personalized cancer care plan. And with a plan, comes hope. We will help you navigate your care and will be by your side every step of the way, connecting the dots. Our goal is to help you get back to home, family, life and self sooner.

Comprehensive care for all types of gynecologic cancer

For many types and stages of gynecologic cancer, it’s important to start treatment right away. Getting the right care options at the right time for your cancer can help make a difference in your treatment and recovery. Gynecologic cancers affect a woman’s reproductive organs, including:

• Cervix
• Fallopian tubes
• Ovaries
• Uterus
• Vagina
• Vulva

Our care teams also focus on preventive care and annual screenings, using vaccination to prevent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted disease which can lead to cancer of the cervix and vulva. They also use minimally invasive procedures to treat pre-cancer areas when detected, decreasing the risk for developing cancer.  

Gynecologic cancer treatment with enhanced recovery options

Our experienced surgeons specialize in women’s health and the diagnosis and treatment of gynecologic cancer. At Ascension sites of care, gynecologic oncologists, radiation therapists and medical oncologists develop highly specialized surgical and therapeutic treatment plans, enhanced with our recovery care program. It’s an important part of our approach to cancer care. Each recovery pathway is personalized for different types of cancer treatments to help speed up your recovery after surgery. Your care team uses these protocols to help you prepare for what to expect before, during and after surgery, including:  

• Colposcopy, scope of the cervix and lower part of the womb 
• Endometrial ablation, procedure to remove a thin layer of tissue that lines the uterus
• Fine-needle biopsy, procedure to analyze cancer cells
• Gynecologic surgery, such as hysterectomy (removing uterus)
• Lymph gland removal  

If you have questions about fertility preservation, discuss them with your cancer specialist.
 
Across our national network, we deliver high-tech radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy, pelvic reconstruction surgery and targeted treatment options for many types of cancer, delivered by highly trained specialists. If you want to learn more about other possible options, talk to your doctor. You may want to ask whether cancer clinical trials are the right option for your care.  

Team approach helps navigate tests and support services

Along the way, your care may require imaging, lab tests, pharmacy support, physical therapy, genetic screening, tests and counseling or other specialists – you do not have to navigate your care alone. Your care team will help you schedule appointments, connect with other services and support groups, and answer your questions. From your first consultation and throughout your ongoing care, you and your doctor will stay connected through in-person and, if possible, virtual visits. When you come into the clinic for your appointments, know that we’re maintaining strict precautions to keep you safe in our care.

Gynecologic cancer care that is personalized for you

Your doctor and care team work together with you on a care plan. First, you will meet with your doctor and care team to discuss your diagnosis and your care options. Your doctor will answer your questions, paying attention to your needs and those of your caregivers, including your mental and emotional health. In addition to your surgeon, your care team may include a medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, radiation therapist, oncology-certified nurses, physical therapist, dietitian, social worker, chaplain and supportive palliative care specialist. And your entire care team stays connected to discuss your treatment and progress. As your care needs change, we’re ready to support you.

Screenings to help detect cervical cancer early

Getting regular pelvic exams and Pap smear screening may help find cervical cancer early, when it is most treatable. Early detection may allow for more options for treatment too. Talk with your doctor about screenings that are right for you based on your age, family history, smoking history and other risk factors. Several types of gynecologic cancers are related to infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. This can be checked during screening exams and prevented through vaccination. If you have been previously diagnosed with cancer or are in remission, screenings may be an ongoing part of your cancer care. Talk with your doctor about the right timing for ongoing screenings. If you need help finding a GYN doctor, start here.

Get a second opinion on your gynecologic cancer diagnosis or care plan

Get the confidence and peace of mind that your doctor and care plan are right for you. It's easy to get a second opinion at Ascension sites of care. We can review your medical records and healthcare history to answer your questions and discuss options. Talk with one of our doctors about a personalized care plan. 
 
When you are facing a new gynecologic cancer diagnosis or are deciding on a surgical or therapeutic treatment plan, there’s a lot to think about. Our cancer specialists can provide a second opinion, based on our experience and as part of an integrated national network of care.
 
Before your appointment, check with your insurance company to find out if a second opinion is covered. We can request your medical records on your behalf, so that they can be shared with your care team before your arrival.

Financial assistance and support is available

We can connect you with resources and programs that may be able to help you and your family with options for financial assistance. Our financial counseling team is here to listen to your concerns and work with you to help find options that meet your needs.