If you are diagnosed with a Gynecologic cancer, we have a list of "5 Tips if Diagnosed with a Gynecologic Cancer", that we compiled from several Gynecologic Oncologists from around the country.

Tip 1:  Get to a Gynecologic Oncologist (Gyn Onc)
A Gynecologic Oncologist is a specialist that is trained to take care of gynecologic cancers. Studies show, that in the care of a Gynecologic Oncologist, outcomes for Gynecologic Cancer patients are better If you are diagnosed, please, see a gynecologic oncologist. If you need help finding one near you, click here.

Tip 2: Research & Bring a List of Questions 
The more you know about your disease before your Gyn Onc visit, the better. To make your appointment more productive, learn what you can about your disease before hand, and come with a list of questions written down. If you don't write down the questions, there is a good chance you may not remember all of them. Questions can be created after visiting the following reputable online resources: Cancer.gov, Cancer.org, FoundationForWomensCancer.org, and WORDonCancer.org (by choosing one of the three common cancer sections: Ovarian Cancer, Cervical Cancer, Uterine Cancer) 
Here is a sample list of questions to get you started:

A) What is my exact diagnosis?
B) What therapeutic (treatment) options do I have?
    i) Surgery options (is minimally invasive surgery an option?)
    ii) Chemo therapy
    iii) Radiation therapy
    iv) Hormone therapy
    v) Biological Treatment
C) What are the side effects of these treatments?
D) What should the follow-up to these treatments be?
E) What could be signs of a recurrence?
F) Questions to ask your surgeon...
    i) How many of these procedures do you do on a monthly or yearly basis?
    ii) What kind of complications have you had or what complications could be expected?

Tip 3: Bring a "Helper" with You to Your Gyn Onc Visit
A visit with a gynecologic oncologist can often be overwhelming, because a disease like cancer is so complicated.  But, bringing someone else to the appointment, as a support, can often help process the information discussed. When attending an appointment with a gynecologic oncologist, be sure to bring a, "Helper" (friend or family member).

Tip 4:  Get a Second Opinion From Another Gyn Onc
If diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer, get a second opinion. "Shopping around" and consulting with other qualified experts will only you understand more of what you are dealing with and it will help ensure that you are with the doctor that is right for you. Again, you can find another gynecologic oncologist by clicking here.

Tip 5:  Talk with Your Gyn Onc about Joining a Clinical Trial.
Clinical trials offer the newest treatments, and studies have shown that participation in these trials, usually leads to better outcomes for gynecologic cancer patients.  To search a list of clinical trials you may qualify for, go to: ClinicalTrials.gov and CancerTrialsHelp.org
 

To learn more about the gynecologic cancer you have been diagnosed with, consult one of our three cancer sections from the menu on the left: Ovarian Cancer, Cervical Cancer, & Uterine Cancer.

Last Updated on Friday, 09 December 2011 10:50