Gynecologic Cancer

BJC HealthCare offers excellent care for bladder cancer, at any stage. Our Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and WashU Medicine, along with its five satellite locations, is designated a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI). 

In addition to Siteman locations, BJC HealthCare offers comprehensive and convenient care in locations across the region. Our Missouri Baptist Medical Center program is nationally accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC). 

We combine a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach, research, and clinical excellence in locations designed by patients, doctors, and nurses. Decades of experience has taught us that when treating cancer, comfort and compassion are just as important as the science of medicine.

Gynecologic cancer isn't just one disease. It is several different kinds of cancer, all of which require a high level of expertise to treat. We have gynecologic oncologists who specialize in each of these unique types of cancer. That means expert care for you when you need it the most. When you to come to us for gynecologic cancer care, you can expect: 

• A reputation for excellence: Siteman Cancer Center provides access to superior care close to home. Siteman is consistently ranked as one of the top 10 cancer centers in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
• Pioneering treatments: We have innovative treatment options for every stage of gynecologic cancer. We perform minimally invasive surgeries that reduce the risk of long-term side effects. And we are on the forefront of new immunotherapy medications that provide hope for people with cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.
• A team of specialists: You want to receive care from a team that specializes in gynecologic cancer. We have expert pathologists, radiologists, oncologists, and surgeons who diagnose and treat only gynecologic cancer—a focus that allows us to provide expert care. 
• Innovative treatments: We offer many groundbreaking therapies to treat all types of gynecologic cancers. These include minimally invasive robotic surgery and brachytherapy that delivers precision doses of radiation from inside your vagina or uterus. 
• Research and clinical trials: Our doctors are at the forefront of new discoveries for treating gynecologic cancers. They participate in numerous clinical trials to test emerging therapies. That means you have access to the latest medicines, techniques, and technology—often before they’re widely available. 
• Genetic testing and counseling: Many gynecologic cancers run in families. If you have a family history, our genetic testing can help you understand your risk. Genetic testing of tumors can also guide your treatment plan. 
• Fertility preservation options: Treatments for gynecologic cancer can sometimes impact your ability to get pregnant. If you’re concerned about fertility, we can help you freeze eggs or embryos prior to treatment. 
• Support throughout treatment and beyond: Going through gynecologic cancer treatment can take a physical and emotional toll. We understand the challenges you’re facing. Our cancer support services team is here to provide all the support you need, from nutritional counseling to art, music, and massage therapy. 

Gynecologic cancer refers to any type of cancer that affects the female reproductive system. These cancerous cells can form and multiply in different parts of your reproductive system.   

The type of gynecologic cancer depends on where the cancer starts. Gynecologic cancers include: 

• Endometrial cancer (begins in the endometrial cells lining your uterus) 
• Ovarian cancer 
• Cervical cancer 
• Vulvar cancer 
• Vaginal cancer 
• Fallopian tube cancer   

We can detect some types of gynecologic cancer during routine screenings, such as a Pap smear. Others are harder to diagnose because they may not cause symptoms until more advanced stages.   

We use the most advanced screening tools and techniques to accurately diagnose all types of gynecologic cancers. By finding and treating cancer at the earliest possible stage, we can improve your care and reduce the impact of cancer on your quality of life.   

Testing for gynecologic cancers may include: 

• Pap smear
• Colposcopy
• Endoscopy
• Imaging tests, including MRI, ultrasound, and CT and PET scans