During Gynecological Cancer Awareness month, Dr. Eugene Toy is reminding women that neglecting their health can lead to further problems down the road. “Paying attention to your body and knowing what’s normal for you can help prevent gynecologic cancers like ovarian, uterine, vulvar, vaginal, and cervical cancer,” said oncologist and gynecologist Eugene Toy, MD. There are many things women can do to help prevent the most common types of gynecological cancers, like knowing the signs and symptoms, scheduling regular checkups with their provider, and speaking up when something just doesn’t feel right.
“For example, abdominal complaints might be indicative of digestive problems, but could also signal serious problems such as a gynecological cancer,” said Dr. Toy.
View our gynecologic oncology services
The five main types of gynecologic cancers are ovarian, uterine, vulvar, vaginal, and cervical cancer. They each have signs and symptoms women can look out for.
Rochester Regional Health screens patients for gynecological cancers. Dr. Toy recommends that women see their gynecologist or primary care provider for a pelvic exam annually, and discuss any changes in their pelvic health or address any abdominal complaints.
“If someone is experience irritable bowel syndrome, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, pelvic pain or pressure, or any other signs and symptoms, they should contact their healthcare provider for further examination.”
Sign up for our Health Hive newsletter to receive our top stories and tips to help you live a longer, healthier life.