Gynecologic oncologists’ contribution to women’s healthcare cannot be overlooked. They play a crucial role in treating medical conditions, especially cancer-related to female reproductive organs. Let us understand who they are and what you can expect at your first appointment with our onco gynecologist in Ahmedabad.
Who are Onco Gynecologist or Gynecologic Oncologists?
Gynecologic oncologists are experts in treating females with reproductive tract cancers. These physicians receive specialized and advanced education to provide effective treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, etc, against vaginal, ovarian, endometrial, and cervical cancers.
Why Do You Need to Visit a Gynecologic Oncologist?
Any doctor will refer a patient to gynecologic oncologists when they suspect ovarian or other types of gynecologic cancer. They will thoroughly analyze and assess your condition before advising you to visit a gynecologic oncologist. The assessment can be based on the symptoms discussed below.
Symptoms Women Need to Be Aware Of
Some signs and symptoms that might be associated with either cervical, endometrial, vaginal, vulvar, and ovarian cancers and female pelvic tumors are:
- Changes in the routine menstrual cycle
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Changes in the vulva’s skin, including wart-like bumps, open sores, and skin pigment/texture variations
- A palpable lump or mass in the vagina
- Frequent urination
- Pelvic pressure or pain
- Pain during intercourse or when urinating
- Lower back pain
- Burning or itching sensation in the vulva
- Difficulty defecating or urinating
- Long-lasting swelling or bloating in the stomach area
- Lasting swelling in the legs
- The feeling of being full quickly after eating
- Persistent indigestion
- Anemia
- Unexplained weight loss
Please note that the symptoms and severity vary depending on the patient and their overall condition.
First Appointment with the Gynecologic Oncologist: What to Expect
The first appointment will likely begin with the medical professional asking questions about your symptoms and analyzing your medical history. If required, they will perform a pelvic or other diagnostic examination. There is a chance your doctor might want to take a detailed look at some of the reports. So, ensure you bring the following records to the consultation or know the answers to these questions.
- Blood test results
- Medical records, including pathology and radiology reports
- Medical records and notes from other medical professionals you consulted to
- Imaging CD-ROM’s CD-ROM’s pictures, if possible
- Surgical and medical history
- Health insurance information
- List of ongoing supplements and medications
- Family’s medical history
After your initial discussion and appropriate diagnosis, the gynecologic oncologist will discuss the available treatment options. We understand the first appointment might be overwhelming for you. However, do not hesitate to ask questions or clear doubts that will help you better understand the condition and treatment.
Questions You Can Ask Your Onco Gynecologist
While specific questions might be subjective to your appointment with our onco gynecologist in Naranpura, some general questions that you can ask during the first appointment or early into the treatment are:
- What is the stage of my condition? Is cancer spreading in the body?
- What are the available treatment options? Which is the most suitable option for me?
- Do I need to undergo more than one kind of treatment?
- Is a clinical trial appropriate for my condition?
- What benefits does each treatment offer?
- Are there any potential side effects or risks involved in the treatment? Are they manageable?
- How do I prepare for the treatment? How long will the treatment last?
- What is the cost of treatment? Will insurance cover it?
- Will the treatment affect my routine activities? If yes, to what extent?
- Do I need to visit for regular checkups after the treatment?
- Will the treatment affect my fertility, menstrual cycle, and future pregnancy?
Conclusion
Cancerous growth in any reproductive organ of the female needs special attention. Thus, it becomes crucial for women to pay close attention to any of the general symptoms discussed above and visit gynecologists at Sunflower Multispeciality Hospital for routine checkups. This will help our experts identify any potential complications with the female reproductive organs, leading to appropriate diagnosis and timely treatment.
