Gynecologic Cancer

Gynecologic cancers we treat

Types of gynecologic cancer we treat include:

• Cervical cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Vaginal cancer
• Vulvar cancer
• Uterine cancer (Endometrial cancer)

Symptoms of gynecologic cancer

Gynecologic cancer doesn’t always cause noticeable symptoms, and symptoms can vary based on which organs are affected. 

Our experts are here to help you find the answers you need if you’re experiencing new or worsening symptoms, including: 

• Vaginal bleeding between periods or after menopause
• Pain in your pelvic area that does not go away
• Changes to the skin near your vagina, such as lumps or sores
• Unexplained tiredness (fatigue)

Screening, risk reduction, and early detection

If you’ve experienced symptoms or you have a family history of gynecologic cancer, it’s important to talk with your clinician about your risk factors and whether screening is right for you. Thanks to advances in testing, pre-screening, and genetic research, early detection of some forms of gynecologic cancer – particularly cervical cancer through Pap tests – is possible. Early detection often leads to more effective treatments and positive outcomes.

Gynecologic cancer care at Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute

The Cancer Institute is home to doctors experienced in treating gynecologic cancer who are also leaders in their respective fields. You can feel confident you are receiving the best available care.

Our team includes doctors with:

Specialized expertise

You receive care from doctors who completed specialized training (fellowships) in gynecologic cancer. This expertise is not widely available in the U.S. and translates to care that better meets your needs.

Surgical excellence

Our cancer surgeons have extensive experience with robotic and laparoscopic surgical approaches, which allow you to heal faster with less pain and fewer side effects or risks.

Accreditation from a nationally recognized radiation therapy program

We consistently deliver effective radiation therapy treatments with an unwavering focus on your safety. Our commitment to high care standards has been consistently recognized with accreditation from the American College of Radiology®.

Gynecologic cancer treatments we offer

We hold meetings called tumor boards where doctors specializing in all aspects of gynecologic cancer meet face-to-face to determine a personalized treatment path for your specific cancer. Your care may include:

Robotic surgery

Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) was the first program in the region offering robotic surgery. This technique allows surgeons to perform complex procedures such as hysterectomies with greater precision, leading to fewer complications.

Reconstructive surgery

We help you live a good quality of life even if cancer treatments affect the appearance or functioning of your reproductive organs. Our surgeons use sophisticated techniques to rebuild the organs so you can resume activities such as sexual intercourse after you heal.

Cancer drugs (chemotherapy)

Chemotherapy treatment includes a personalized combination of drugs that prevent cancer cells from growing. Our participation in the National Cancer Institute’s GOG Foundation gives you access to new drugs for complex cancers.

Immunotherapy

Our participation in clinical trials gives you access to promising new treatments, including immunotherapy. This treatment works by “training” your immune system to recognize and rid the body of cancer cells.

Radiation therapy

We use radiation therapy to safely break up cancer cells using beams of energy. We offer all the latest techniques, including intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), for precise care that protects nearby healthy tissue.