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CureRays
Gynecologic Cancer Guide

 CONTENTS

1.What is gynecologic cancer?
Gynecologic cancer is a term that refers to a group of cancers that originate in the female reproductive system. These cancers can affect various parts of a woman's reproductive organs, including the cervix, ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, vulva, and vagina.

The different types of gynecologic cancers include:

  • Cervical cancer: This cancer starts in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a major risk factor for cervical cancer.

  • Ovarian cancer: Ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries, which are the female reproductive organs that produce eggs. It is often called the "silent killer" because it can be difficult to detect in its early stages.

  • Uterine cancer: Uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer, starts in the lining of the uterus (endometrium). It is one of the more common gynecologic cancers.

  • Fallopian tube cancer: This rare cancer occurs in the fallopian tubes, which are the tubes that transport eggs from the ovaries to the uterus.

  • Vulvar cancer: Vulvar cancer begins in the external female genitalia, known as the vulva.

  • Vaginal cancer: Vaginal cancer originates in the vaginal lining.

2.What side effects can I expect?

  • Early and Late Toxicity Risks of Radiation to the Cervical Region

  • Early and Late Toxicity Risks of Radiation to the Ovarian Region

  • Early and Late Toxicity Risks of Radiation to the Uterine Region

  • Early and Late Toxicity Risks of Radiation to the Fallopian Region

  • Early and Late Toxicity Risks of Radiation to the Vulvar Region

  • Early and Late Toxicity Risks of Radiation to the Vaginal Region

3.What medicine might I need? (coming soon)

4.What is the supporting evidence?

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Radiation therapy is a common treatment option for gynecologic cancers, such as cervical, endometrial, and ovarian cancers. The anticipated side effects of radiation therapy can vary depending on the type and extent of treatment, as well as the individual patient's health status. Here is a week-by-week summary of the anticipated side effects of radiation therapy for gynecologic cancer:

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Week 1-2:

During the first week or two of radiation therapy, patients may experience few side effects. However, some may experience mild fatigue, skin irritation, and diarrhea.

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Week 3-4:

As radiation therapy progresses, patients may experience increased fatigue and skin irritation. They may also experience bladder irritation, which can cause urinary frequency, urgency, and discomfort. Some patients may experience mild nausea and vomiting.

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Week 5-6:

In the later weeks of radiation therapy, fatigue and skin irritation may become more severe. Patients may also experience bowel irritation, which can cause diarrhea and abdominal cramping. Bladder irritation may also persist, causing continued urinary frequency, urgency, and discomfort.

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Week 7-8:

The final weeks of radiation therapy may be the most challenging. Patients may experience significant fatigue, skin irritation, and bowel and bladder irritation. They may also experience vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse.

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After radiation therapy is completed, patients may continue to experience some side effects, such as fatigue, skin irritation, and bowel and bladder irritation. These side effects typically improve over time, but some patients may experience long-term effects, such as changes in bowel or bladder function or vaginal scarring. Patients should discuss any side effects with their healthcare provider to determine the appropriate management strategies.

Gynecologic Cancer Support Groups

Meetings via Zoom

2nd Friday of the Month

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Email: Mari.Williams@commonspirit.org for details

Metastatic and Advanced Cancer Support Group

Meeting via Zoom

4th Friday of the Month  10:00 AM-11:00 AM

Email: Eva.Lukas@commonspirit.org for details

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Caregiver Support Group

Meeting via Zoom

3rd Friday of the Month 11:00 AM-12:00 AM

Email: Eva.Lukas@commonspirit.org for details

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Caregiver Support Group

Meeting via Zoom

3rd Friday of the month

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Email: Eva.Lukas@commonspirit.org for details

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Stress Reduction and Mindfulness Series

Registration Link

ONCOLOGY CARE THERAPIST

Eva Lukas, MA, LMFT

916-537-5262

Appointments available upon request

Spiritual Counseling

Rev. Karen Lawler

916-450-2665

Appointments available upon request

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Oncology Dietician

Susan Liebert, MS, RD, CSO, CDE

916-962-8868

Appointments available upon request

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Oncology Nurse Navigators

1-833-DHCINAV / 916-962-8892

DHCINAV@dignityhealth.org

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Transition to Wellness

Via ZOOM

To view dates or to register: 

Questions about nutrition, activity or mental health in survivorship?

Meeting via Zoom

Email: tami.krebs@commonspirit.org for details

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