Gynecologic cancer treatment is individualized according to the type and stage of cancer, where it has spread, pathology and genetic or molecular findings, and your overall health and priorities. Treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy or a combination of approaches. Explore the treatment information below to understand how these options may be used for different gynecologic cancers.
Gynecologic Cancer Treatment
Different gynecologic cancers can require very different treatment approaches, even when they develop in nearby organs or tissues. Your care team considers the characteristics of the cancer and your individual needs when determining which treatments may be appropriate and in what sequence. Select a cancer below for more detailed treatment information.
Cervical Cancer Treatment
Treatment for cervical cancer depends on the stage and extent of the cancer as well as factors such as your overall health and fertility priorities. Surgery may be appropriate for selected early-stage cancers, while radiation therapy and chemotherapy are important components of treatment for many patients with more advanced disease.
Learn about cervical cancer treatment, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy.
Endometrial Cancer Treatment
Endometrial cancer is the most common type of uterine cancer, and surgery is an important part of treatment for many patients. Depending on the characteristics and extent of the cancer, additional treatment may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy or hormone therapy.
Learn about uterine and endometrial cancer treatment, including surgery and other treatment approaches.
Ovarian Cancer Treatment
Surgery and chemotherapy are central to treatment for many ovarian cancers, although the sequence and combination of treatments can differ from patient to patient. Genetic and molecular information about the cancer may also help determine whether targeted therapy, immunotherapy or other approaches should be considered.
Learn about ovarian cancer treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and other treatment options.
Uterine Cancer Treatment
Uterine cancer includes endometrial cancer as well as less common cancers that begin in the muscle or supporting tissues of the uterus. Because these cancers can behave differently, treatment depends on the tissue where the cancer began, its stage and other characteristics identified during evaluation.
Learn about uterine and endometrial cancer treatment and how treatment can differ according to the type of uterine cancer.
Treatment Approaches for Gynecologic Cancer
Gynecologic cancer treatment may involve several types of care used individually or in combination. The treatments that apply to you depend on your diagnosis and the goals of your care plan.
Surgery
Surgery may be used to remove cancer, determine its extent or accomplish other goals specific to the diagnosis. Depending on the operation required and individual clinical factors, surgery may be performed through an open, laparoscopic or robotic-assisted approach. The surgical approach is selected according to what can safely and effectively accomplish the goals of the procedure.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to damage cancer cells within a defined area and may be used alone or with other treatments. Its role varies considerably among gynecologic cancers and may include treating the primary cancer, reducing the risk of recurrence or treating a specific area of disease or symptoms.
Learn more about Radiation Oncology at Providence Saint John’s Health Center.
Systemic Treatment
Systemic treatments travel through the body and can include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy and hormone therapy. Which approaches may be appropriate depends on the type of gynecologic cancer, its stage, previous treatment and, in some cases, genetic or molecular characteristics of the cancer.
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials evaluate new treatment approaches and new ways of using existing treatments and may be considered at different points in cancer care. Whether a particular study is appropriate depends on the diagnosis, characteristics of the cancer, previous treatment and the eligibility requirements of the trial.
Not Sure Which Treatment Applies to You?
You can meet with your care team without having to determine which treatment you need beforehand. Your diagnosis, pathology, imaging, stage and, when appropriate, genetic or molecular testing help your gynecologic oncologist determine which options apply to your situation.
Getting answers about the goals of treatment, the recommended care path and what matters most to you can help you make informed decisions.
Click here to contact the Gynecologic Oncology Center of Excellence.