Personalized care for gynecologic cancers
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What tests are used to diagnose gynecologic cancer?
Your care team focuses on identifying if the tumor is non-invasive or invasive, and to understand where the tumor began and whether or not it has spread. Diagnostic blood testing, imaging, biopsy or diagnostic surgery help your doctor diagnose your condition, and stage even the most rare cancers. And we use advanced molecular studies to recognize cancer subtypes and genetic mutations, to create a care plan for your type of cancer.
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Does a Pap smear help detect cervical cancer early?
Getting regular pelvic exams may help find cervical cancer and other gynecologic cancers early, when they’re most treatable. Talk with your doctor about the screenings that are right for you, based on your age, family history and risk factors.
For cervical cancer screening, women in their 20s should begin getting a regular Pap test, also called a Pap smear. In your 30s and as you age, women should continue getting the Pap test and add the HPV test, as recommended by your doctor. When you choose a women’s health specialist with Ascension Michigan for your care, you are connected to all the care you need – from routine screenings to advanced care. Find a gynecologist.
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What is your gynecologic oncology clinic known for?
Your doctor and care team get to know you well, and you’ll receive care for the whole person – your physical and mental health. We also provide compassionate, personalized support for your family and caregivers. We diagnose and treat all types of gynecologic cancers and deliver care including surgery, radiation therapy and targeted medication therapies. When you choose Ascension Michigan, you get experienced cancer specialists who are part of a national team, sharing best practices and the latest in cancer care knowledge and research.
Ascension Michigan provides comprehensive tests, pelvic exams and treatments for gynecologic cancers, including:
- Colposcopy
- Fine needle biopsy
- Gynecologic ablation procedures
- Gynecologic surgery, such as hysterectomy
- Hormone therapy
- Immunotherapy and advanced targeted drug therapy
- Lymph node dissection
- Medical oncology
- Radiation oncology
If your care may impact your ability to have children, you and your doctor will discuss all of your options and what they mean for you. Together, we’ll develop a care plan that’s right for you.
Talk with your doctor about pelvic reconstruction options after a gynecologic surgery. Your doctor and care team will connect you with a surgeon to learn about procedures to help rebuild pelvic organs, such as the bladder, vagina or pelvic floor.
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Who is on my cancer care team?
Hearing the word cancer comes with a lot of thoughts and emotions, and we’re ready to support you. You'll meet with your doctor to discuss your diagnosis and your care options. Your care team may include:
- Gynecology oncologist and surgeon
- Medical oncologist
- Oncology-certified nurses, dietitians and social workers
- Oncology-certified pharmacist
- Palliative care specialist
- Radiation oncologist
- Radiologist
- Rehabilitation lymphedema therapists and pelvic floor therapists
- Urogynecologist
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Who should I call when I have questions?
Your doctor and care team are ready to listen and answer all your questions. Working together, we provide services that help support your treatment plan, including managing pain and other symptoms, medications, appetite changes, sleeplessness, fatigue and mood changes. Your entire care team stays connected throughout your care to discuss your treatment and progress.
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Is financial assistance and support 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. Your cancer care team can connect you to a financial counselor.
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Where do I park?
At Ascension Michigan sites of care, we provide convenient parking, by a valet if needed. Talk to your care team if you have transportation needs.
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My doctor told me about an enhanced recovery program, what is that?
Surgical oncologists and anesthesiologists provide enhanced recovery pathways as part of your surgical care plan. They are an important part of our cancer treatment programs. Each pathway is personalized for different types of cancer treatment, 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.