Gynaecologic cancers

The diagnosis matters

Ovarian, uterine and cervical cancers are different diseases. The role of surgery and other treatments varies with the cancer type and its extent.

Planning treatment

Assessment may include pelvic imaging, tissue testing and other investigations selected by the team. Treatment can involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy or a combination. For ovarian cancer, the timing of surgery in relation to chemotherapy is an important discussion.

Discuss the effects of treatment

Ask how the proposed treatment might affect fertility, menopause, bladder or bowel function, and recovery. If fertility is important to you, raise this before treatment begins.

Records to bring

Bring pathology, imaging and tumour-marker results where available, plus previous operation notes and chemotherapy or radiotherapy records.

Further information

Further reading: Ovarian, fallopian tube and peritoneal cancer treatment (professional reference) — National Cancer Institute.

Further reading: Cervical cancer treatment by stage — National Cancer Institute.

Prepare for your consultation →

This overview is general education. It does not establish a diagnosis, recommend a treatment for an individual, or confirm availability of a procedure.