AFCR wants to remind Asian women to be especially aware of several cancers that affect the female reproductive tract, including ovarian, uterine and cervical cancer. These are called gynecologic cancers, and all women are at risk by simply being female.
If caught early, these cancers can often be controlled or cured, so early detection is key. Women should get routine Pap smears to test for cervical cancer; however, a Pap smear alone will not test for ovarian or uterine cancer. Women should talk with their doctors about whether a vaginal ultrasound or other screenings might be appropriate options. The transvaginal ultrasound uses sound waves to show what is inside your body.
Above all, it is important to know your body, and if anything doesn’t feel right, talk to your doctor. Know the symptoms of gynecologic cancers, which include abdominal swelling or bloating, pelvic pressure or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, and/or urinary symptoms (having to go urgently or often).
If you are diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer, see a gynecologic oncologist-a doctor who has been trained to treat cancers of a woman’s reproductive system. The doctor will explain that there are a variety of treatment options available depending on your stage at diagnosis.
