Gynecologic Cancer

At MetroHealth, our multidisciplinary team will work together to put our expertise and state-of-the-art tools to work for you, within a personalized treatment plan for your gynecologic cancer.

We serve our community with free screening, education, and support programs.

Stay tuned into your body

For gynecologic cancers—cancers that start in the female reproductive organs—it is important to pay attention to symptoms and seek regular care from an OB/GYN.

If you are experiencing menopausal bleeding, abnormal menstruation, bloating, abdominal pain, pelvic pain, back pain, or any changes to urination, schedule an appointment with your OB/GYN to discuss your symptoms.

Preventing Gynecologic Cancers

While one of the biggest risk factors for gynecologic cancer is your family history, there are still a number of things you can do to help prevent cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar cancers.

When you’re 11 or 12 years old, get the HPV vaccine to help prevent cervical cancer. The CDC recommends vaccination through age 26.
Obesity is a risk factor for many gynecologic cancers.

Visit your OB/GYN yearly and follow their recommendation for pap smears to detect precancerous cells.
Smoking is a risk factor for all cancer, but especially vulvar cancer.

Regular screenings save lives

Regular pap smears—usually every 3 years for women ages 21-65 — are the most important screening tool available for gynecologic cancers.

Many gynecologic cancers are caused by genetic makeup, so knowing your family history is important. If you have a family history of gynecologic cancer, talk to your OB/GYN about having blood work to understand your risk and prevention options.

Detection of gynecologic cancers often relies on the early identification of symptoms.

Personalized Gynecologic Cancer Treatment

Different types of gynecologic cancers may be treated in different ways, and we rely on a range of advanced therapies to meet your individual needs. At your first visit, your doctor will review your medical history, imaging and lab results, and pathology reports. Your doctor will also perform a physical exam and a pelvic exam. Using all of this information, your doctor will put together a personalized treatment plan designed to treat your cancer as effectively as possible.

The most important part of treatment at MetroHealth is the relationship you build with your provider. This close, one-on-one relationship is vital to understanding your symptoms, how you’re responding to treatment, and how to walk alongside you during your care journey.

Your treatment options may include:

Surgery

Often we can perform minimally invasive surgeries—like robotic or laparoscopic surgery. That way you can recover faster and spend less time in the hospital.

Chemotherapy

Anti-cancer drugs might be another option for your treatment.

Radiation

Our doctors work closely with MetroHealth's specialized radiation oncologists to ensure that you receive the best care possible.

Recovering from Gynecologic Cancers

At MetroHealth, you’ll receive care from our oncology team that has been recognized by the American College of Surgeons for the highest possible level of training and expertise.

With You Every Step

MetroHealth cares for you on every step of your journey:

You’ll benefit from integrated behavioral health services every step of the way, because mental health plays a vital role in well-being.
We partner with American Cancer Society, The Greater Cleveland Food Bank, and other community organizations to provide support, resources, and care for patients and families.

Social Workers Available

MetroHealth provides a social worker to help patients navigate their gynecologic cancer journey and connect with resources. Call 216-778-8204 to connect with a social worker.

The Gathering Place

MetroHealth partners with The Gathering Place to provide individual, group, and family support services, including nutrition and exercise programs, the Regina Brett Wig Salon, special programs, and legal or financial consultation.

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Advancing Care Through Research

At MetroHealth, every oncologist participates in research, bringing advances in cancer care directly to your bedside. We address health disparities by enrolling people from minority populations in clinical trials at more than 4 times the national average.

For more information about our studies, or to enroll in a study that might be right for you, contact our oncology team at 216-77-TREAT.

A Team Dedicated to You

The MetroHealth Cancer Institute team is setting a new standard of cancer care in northeast Ohio.

Meet the Institute Team

Our Expertise. Your Healthiest Outcome.

The MetroHealth Cancer Institute is accredited by The Commission on Cancer and The National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers.

Both accreditations are through the American College of Surgeons and reflect our team’s high level of expertise and quality care.

Specialty Care

Our gynecologic cancer specialists work closely with our obstetrics and gynecology providers to prevent, detect and treat gynecologic cancers.

Obstetrics and Gynecology Department