The Top Doctors Specializing in GYNECOLOGICAL ONCOLOGY in VA

Gynecologic oncology is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on treatment for cancers of the biological female reproductive organs. A gynecologic oncologist cares for people who have these conditions, diagnosing their cancers and recommending the best treatment. Gynecologic oncologists look for tumors in a person’s reproductive organs and determine if the disease has spread to other parts of the body, too. That helps them make sure a person gets timely and appropriate treatment for their condition. Gynecologic oncologists typically work in collaboration with other doctors to provide integrated care. They speak with patients about the different cancer treatment options available and which ones may be best for their condition. A gynecologic oncologist might recommend: Surgery, Chemotherapy, Radiation therapy, Immunotherapy, or Hormone therapy. A gynecologic oncologist is a medical doctor who receives initial training as a gynecologist. Additional education for a gynecologic oncologist typically involves completing a residency as an OB/GYN. From there, they take on further specialized education to learn more about treating gynecologic cancers. That educational curriculum typically includes learning more about: Surgical techniques, Proper administration of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, The biology and pathology of gynecologic cancers, and Other experimental treatments. The additional training required to become a gynecologic oncologist takes anywhere from 3 to 5 years. There are fellowship programs available for physicians who complete an OB/GYN residency. You should make an appointment with your regular OB/GYN if you have symptoms such as: A sore in your vaginal area that doesn’t seem to heal, An unusual amount of vaginal discharge or bleeding, especially after you’ve started menopause, Constant bloating or indigestion, Changes in the pattern of your bladder or bowel movements, Pain in your pelvic area, or a lump that you can see and feel or that causes you pain. Your regular OB/GYN may refer you to a gynecologic oncologist for more testing and possible treatment. A gynecologic oncologist will have the kind of experience and technical skills needed to diagnose and treat cancer in these areas.