You can receive compassionate, specialized care for gynecologic cancers right here in Anderson, SC. Our team supports patients throughout every step-from diagnosis and treatment to recovery-helping you understand your options and feel confident in your care. We welcome patients from Anderson, Greenville, Oconee and Pickens Counties, guiding each person with personalized attention and a focus on comfort, safety, and peace of mind.
What is Gynecologic Cancer?
Gynecologic cancer affects the female reproductive system, including the cervix, ovaries, uterus, vagina and vulva. These cancers develop from abnormal cell growth and may spread if not detected early. Our gynecologic oncologists use advanced tools to diagnose accurately and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms can vary depending on the type of gynecologic cancer but may include:
- Abnormal bleeding (between periods, after menopause or heavy menstrual cycles)
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Unexplained bloating or swelling
- Changes in urinary or bowel habits
- Persistent fatigue
- Unusual vaginal discharge
If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to schedule an evaluation promptly.
Risk Factors
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing gynecologic cancers, including:
- Age (risk increases as you get older)
- Family history of gynecologic or other cancers
- Genetic mutations (like BRCA1 or BRCA2)
- Personal history of abnormal cervical or ovarian cells
- Lifestyle factors (smoking, obesity, or hormone use)
Knowing your risks can help you and your doctor develop a plan for early detection and prevention.
Prevention
While not all gynecologic cancers are preventable, you can reduce your risk by:
- Getting regular screenings, including Pap and HPV tests to detect abnormal cervical cells early
- HPV vaccination to lower the risk of cervical cancer
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including staying active, eating well, and avoiding tobacco
- Meeting with a genetic counselor to understand inherited cancer risks and prevention strategies
Screenings for Cervical Cancer
Your doctor can guide you on when to get Pap and HPV tests. These screenings check for unusual cervical cells and human papillomavirus, which can lead to cancer if untreated.
Ovarian Cancer Genetics
If ovarian cancer runs in your family, ask your doctor about a referral to a genetic counselor at AnMed. They can help determine if you carry inherited gene changes that increase your risk and guide you on next steps.
Making an Appointment
You can schedule a consultation by asking your doctor for a referral to the AnMed Cancer Center or calling 864-225-5131. Early evaluation allows for faster diagnosis and treatment planning, improving outcomes and providing peace of mind.
Cancer Care Team
Your team at AnMed includes doctors and specialists who work together to create a personalized treatment plan for you. This team may include:
- Gynecologic oncologists and surgeons
- Medical and radiation oncologists
- Nurses and nurse navigators
- Social workers, dietitians, counselors and pharmacists
Every member contributes to supporting your care, addressing both physical and emotional needs.
Treatment Options
Your treatment depends on your cancer type and stage. Before beginning treatment, let us know if you want to discuss fertility preservation options.
Surgery
Whenever possible, your gynecologic oncologist will use minimally invasive techniques to remove tumors. Robotic surgery may be used for procedures like hysterectomy, which removes the uterus and sometimes other reproductive organs depending on your diagnosis. These techniques often result in shorter recovery times and less discomfort.
Medication Therapies
Special medicines may shrink or destroy cancerous tumors. Options include:
- Chemotherapy: Medicine that kills fast-growing cancer cells in your body.
- Immunotherapy: Treatment that helps your immune system fight cancer.
- Targeted therapy: Medicine that blocks cancer growth based on your tumor type.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy waves to kill cancer cells in specific areas of the body. Your care team will explain the options and help you choose the best approach.
Advanced Treatments
AnMed offers innovative options such as:
- Advanced laparoscopic surgery for minimally invasive tumor removal
- Intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) to treat localized advanced cancers during surgery
- Intraperitoneal chemotherapy for ovarian cancer, delivering treatment directly to the abdomen
Clinical Trials
Your care team can discuss clinical trials that may be available, giving you access to promising new therapies.
Supportive Care
Cancer treatment affects both your body and your emotions. AnMed provides supportive services, including support groups, classes, and counseling, to help you and your family cope and make treatment less stressful.
Cancer Survivorship Support
After active treatment, survivorship support helps you focus on your long-term health and quality of life. Services address physical, emotional and practical needs, including:
- Personalized Care Plans: A roadmap for follow-up care, future screenings and monitoring potential long-term effects.
- Physical Health Management: Guidance on fatigue, pain, nutrition, exercise and other side effects with dietitians, physical therapists and other specialists.
- Emotional & Psychosocial Support: Counseling for anxiety, fear of recurrence, body image concerns and stress.
- Community & Peer Support: Opportunities to connect with other survivors, share experiences and build coping skills.
- Practical Resources: Help with work accommodations, financial aid and tools like the Cancer Survival Toolbox to promote self-advocacy.
These services work together to help survivors stay healthy, confident and supported long after treatment ends.
Genetic Counseling
If you have a hereditary condition, a genetic counselor can help you understand your risks and prevention options. This includes a family medical history review, genetic testing if appropriate and follow-up recommendations.
Coordination of Care
Your gynecologic oncologist works closely with experts in hematology/oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology to ensure you receive a personalized, integrated treatment plan. Your local doctor is kept informed and involved, so your care feels seamless.
A dedicated patient navigator is also a part of your care team. This nurse answers your questions, explains your diagnosis in plain language, helps schedule appointments, and connects you to local resources, including financial assistance and transportation. With a navigator by your side, you'll feel supported, informed and in control throughout your treatment.
