Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Gynecologic oncologists specialize in cancers and precancerous conditions of the female reproductive system.

At Columbia, we care for patients with:

• Ovarian cancer
• Endometrial (uterine) cancer
• Cervical cancer
• Vulvar cancer
• Vaginal cancer
• Gestational trophoblastic disease
• Rare gynecologic cancers
• Precancerous gynecologic conditions

Our specialists also evaluate complex pelvic masses, abnormal biopsy results, inherited cancer syndromes, and other gynecologic conditions that may require advanced surgical or cancer expertise.

You should see a healthcare provider if you have symptoms that are new, persistent, or worsening, including:

• Bleeding after menopause
• Bleeding after sex
• Bleeding between periods
• Persistent pelvic or abdominal pain
• Ongoing bloating
• Feeling full quickly when eating
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• A lump, sore, persistent itching, or skin changes involving the vulva or vagina
• An abnormal Pap test, HPV test, or biopsy result

Many of these symptoms are caused by conditions other than cancer. However, prompt evaluation can help identify the cause and, when necessary, lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment.

Gynecologic cancer care often requires expertise from multiple specialists. At Columbia, gynecologic oncologists work closely with experts in medical oncology, radiation oncology, pathology, radiology, genetics, fertility preservation, surgery, and supportive care to develop a personalized treatment plan for every patient.

As part of the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, patients may also have access to precision medicine, molecular tumor profiling, genetic counseling, and clinical trials that may not be widely available at other centers.

Yes. Columbia provides specialized care for people with rare and complex gynecologic cancers, including uterine sarcoma, fallopian tube cancer, primary peritoneal cancer, ovarian germ cell tumors, ovarian sex cord-stromal tumors, gestational trophoblastic disease, gynecologic melanoma, and other uncommon cancers.

Because these cancers are rare, patients often benefit from care provided by specialists experienced in diagnosing and treating uncommon gynecologic tumors.

Yes. Columbia evaluates and treats precancerous conditions involving the cervix, uterus, vulva, and vagina before cancer develops whenever possible.

These conditions may include:

• Cervical dysplasia (CIN)
• Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN)
• Vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia (VaIN)
• Endometrial hyperplasia
• Atypical endometrial hyperplasia
• Other abnormal biopsy findings

Many precancerous conditions can be successfully treated or monitored with regular follow-up.

Yes. Genetic counseling and testing may be recommended for people with certain gynecologic cancers, a strong family history of cancer, or inherited cancer syndromes.

These services can help identify inherited cancer risk, guide treatment decisions, determine whether targeted therapies may be appropriate, and provide information for family members who may also be at increased risk.

Precision medicine uses information about a patient's cancer to help personalize treatment.

At Columbia, this may include genetic counseling, inherited cancer testing, molecular tumor profiling, and advanced genomic testing to identify changes within a tumor. These results may help guide treatment decisions, including targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and eligibility for clinical trials.

Treatment depends on the type of cancer, the stage of the disease, your overall health, and your treatment goals. Your care team will develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific diagnosis.

Treatment may include:

• Surgery
• Minimally invasive or robotic-assisted surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Hormone therapy
• Immunotherapy
• Targeted therapy
• Fertility-preserving treatment in selected cases
• Clinical trials

Many patients receive a combination of treatments. Your care team will explain the options that are most appropriate for your diagnosis and goals.

Yes. Eligible patients may have access to clinical trials through the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Clinical trials may evaluate promising new therapies, new combinations of existing treatments, or new approaches to understanding and treating gynecologic cancers. Participation is always voluntary, and your care team will discuss the potential benefits, risks, and alternatives before you decide whether to participate.

A gynecologic cancer diagnosis affects more than physical health. Columbia offers a variety of supportive care services to help patients and their families throughout treatment and recovery.

Services may include:

• Genetic counseling
• Fertility preservation counseling
• Nutrition services
• Social work
• Mental health support
• Integrative therapies
• Pelvic floor and physical therapy
• Pain management and palliative care
• Support groups
• Survivorship programs

Your care team can help connect you with the resources that best meet your individual needs.

Yes. Columbia welcomes patients seeking a second opinion for gynecologic cancer, rare gynecologic cancers, precancerous conditions, complex pelvic masses, inherited cancer syndromes, or abnormal imaging or biopsy results.

A second opinion can help confirm your diagnosis, review treatment options, and provide additional information to help you make informed decisions about your care.