Cancers of the Female Reproductive System

Endometrial Cancer

• Definition: Cancer of the inner lining of the uterus.
• Key Risk Factor: Prolonged exposure to estrogen without progesterone.
• Key Symptom: Postmenopausal bleeding.

Cervical Cancer

• Definition: Cancer of the cervix, typically caused by HPV.
• Key Symptom: Painless vaginal bleeding.
• Prevention: HPV vaccine (three injections over six months).
• Screening: Pap smears every 1-3 years starting three years after sexual intercourse or by age 21.

Ovarian Cancer

• Definition: Epithelial tumor grows on the ovaries and spreads rapidly.
• Symptoms: Very vague (e.g., GI disturbances), leading to low survival rates.
• Important Note: Pap smears do not screen for ovarian cancer, only cervical cancer.

Breast Cancer

Screening & Risk Factors

• Screening:
  • Mammograms annually starting at age 40.
  • Monthly breast self-examinations.
  • Earlier baseline mammogram (age 35) if higher risk (e.g., family history).
• Risk Factors: Genetics, early menarche, late menopause, long-term oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, smoking, obesity.

Signs and Symptoms

• Firm, immobile, non-tender lump.
• Dimpling over the skin or peau d'orange appearance.
• Nipple retraction, ulceration, or discharge.
• Notify provider for any noticeable changes.

Treatment

• Hormone Therapy: Tamoxifen.
• Chemotherapy and Radiation.
• Surgery: Lumpectomy (tumor removal) or mastectomy (whole breast removal).

Post-Mastectomy Care

• No injections, blood draws, or blood pressure on the affected side.
• Patient teaching:
  • Wear a sling when ambulating.
  • Wear loose clothing.
  • Perform arm and hand exercises to prevent edema and increase the range of motion.

General Cancer Treatments

• Chemotherapy.
• Radiation: Internal (brachytherapy) or external.
• Ablation therapy.
• Surgery:
  • Hysterectomy: Uterus removal.
  • Salpingectomy: Fallopian tube removal.
  • Oophorectomy: Ovary removal.

Conclusion

• Review of various cancer treatments and specific considerations for different types of cancer.
• Upcoming continuation on remaining cancers in the series.