Gynaecological cancer

About gynaecological cancer

Cancers that start in a woman’s reproductive system are called gynaecological cancers.

Gynaecological cancers are named according to the organ or part of the body where they first develop, including ovary, vulva, cervix, womb (endometrium) and vagina.

The Trust provides a screening, diagnostic and specific treatment service for gynaecological cancers.

Types of gynaecological cancer

There are five main gynaecological cancers:

Cervical Cancer – is an uncommon type of cancer that develops in a woman’s cervix – the entrance to the womb from the vagina
Ovarian Cancer– ovarian cancer occurs when abnormal cells within the ovary start to multiply, creating a tumour affecting the normal function of the ovary
Vaginal Cancer – is a rare cancer that occurs in your vagina – the muscular tube that connects your uterus with your outer genitals
Vulval Cancer – is a rare cancer that begins in cells of the vulva, which is the external female genital organs, including the clitoris, outer and inner vaginal lips (labia), and the perineum
Womb (endometrial) Cancer – also known as endometrial cancer, cancer of the uterus or uterine cancer, is cancer of the lining of the womb

Rarer types

Other rare types of gynaecological cancers include:

• Fallopian tube cancer – is a very rare cancer that begins in the fallopian tubes – the tubes leading from the ovary to the womb (uterus)
• Placental cancer (a pregnancy-related cancer) – is very rare and occurs when abnormal cells start in the tissue that would normally become the placenta – the organ that develops during pregnancy to nurture the foetus

The Trust offers rapid advice, diagnosis and treatment to patients displaying symptoms of a gynaecological cancer and has a specialist team that will see you from referral from a GP or a cervical screening service, to diagnose and treat your gynaecological cancer.

Our Cancer Services team is here to support you every step of the way.

This gynaecological cancer section on our website takes you through your gynaecological cancer pathway within the Trust and provides you with the information and support you will need throughout your journey.