How to Protect Yourself from Gynecologic Cancers
Learn about risks, screenings 和 prevention tips for cancers only women face.
Q: What are the most common gynecologic cancers?
A: Endometrial, ovarian 和 cervical cancer, in that order. Endometrial cancer forms in the tissue lining of the uterus. Ovarian cancer forms in the tissue of the ovaries. Cervical cancer forms in the organ connecting the uterus 和 the vagina (the cervix).
Q: What are risk factors for these cancers?
A: 肥胖, a sedentary lifestyle 和 a family history of cancer put you at an increased risk for endometrial 和 ovarian cancers. Women who don't have children are also at higher risk. Pregnancy has a protective effect because it gives the ovaries a rest. So does taking birth control pills. Having multiple sexual partners is the main risk factor for cervical cancer because it increases the likelihood of being exposed to high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), the most common cause of cervical cancer.
Q: How do you get screened for these cancers?
A: The Pap test is effective at detecting cervical cancer. An annual Pap test used to be the norm, but physicians now agree if you have three normal Pap tests in a row, you can usually get tested every 2-3 years. Every woman still needs an annual pelvic exam. Endometrial 和 ovarian cancers don't have st和ard screening tests 和 are harder to detect, so it's important to watch for early symptoms. Any kind of abnormal bleeding – bleeding between periods or for prolonged periods in younger women or post-menopausal bleeding in older women – needs immediate evaluation, because it could be a sign of endometrial cancer. The earliest symptoms of ovarian cancer include bloating, 腹部不适, pelvic pain 和 changes in bowel or bladder habits. If any of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, see your doctor.
Q: What else can I do to protect myself?
A: Exercise 和 a healthy diet are important. Girls 和 women between the ages of 9 和 26 should be vaccinated against HPV, which may prevent up to 75% of cervical cancers. If you're at high risk – if you've had cancer or have a family history of cancer – consider consulting a gynecologic cancer specialist.
版权所有2016-2024© 鲍德温出版公司. 健康eCooks® is a registered trademark of 鲍德温出版公司. Cook eKitchen™ is a designated trademark of 鲍德温出版公司. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of 鲍德温出版公司. 是严格禁止的.
Date Last Reviewed: August 7, 2018
Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, 鲍德温出版公司. 联系编辑
医学检查: 佩里·皮特科，医学博士
Learn more about Baldwin Publishing 公司. 编辑政策, 隐私政策, ADA合规 和 资助政策.
No information provided by 鲍德温出版公司. in any article is a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical condition. 鲍德温出版公司. strongly suggests that you use this information in consultation with your doctor or other health professional. Use or viewing of any 鲍德温出版公司. article signifies your underst和ing 和 agreement to the disclaimer 和 acceptance of these 使用条款.