Support, clarity and expert care at every step
Learning you may have gynecologic cancer can be overwhelming. Whether it’s ovarian or uterine cancer, you deserve clear answers and a care team you trust. Marshfield Clinic provides advanced diagnostics, leading treatments, and a compassionate team trained in cancers of the reproductive system. We’re here to guide you, support you and help you move forward with confidence.
Contact us for care
Call: (866) 520-2510 Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Types of gynecologic cancer we treat
Gynecologic cancers begin in the female reproductive organs. The most common types we treat include ovarian and uterine (endometrial) cancer.
Ovarian cancer: Develops in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or peritoneum. Often found at a later stage because early symptoms can be subtle.
Uterine (endometrial) cancer: Begins in the lining of the uterus and is the most common gynecologic cancer. Often detected early due to abnormal vaginal bleeding.
Risk factors
Ovarian cancer risk factors
Ovarian cancer risk increases due to:
- Age (most common after menopause)
- Family history of breast or ovarian cancer
- Inherited BRCA1/BRCA2 or Lynch syndrome mutations
- Endometriosis (especially for certain subtypes)
- Obesity and hormonal factors
- Never having been pregnant (nulliparity)
Uterine (Endometrial) cancer risk factors
Uterine cancer is increasingly common, with obesity being a major contributing factor. Risk increases with factors that alter estrogen and progesterone balance such as:
- Obesity, which increases estrogen levels
- Early menstruation or late menopause
- Never having been pregnant
- Hormone therapy with estrogen alone
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), diabetes, high blood pressure
- Lynch syndrome (inherited genetic risk)
Signs and symptoms
Ovarian cancer symptoms
Ovarian cancer often causes subtle symptoms, such as:
- Persistent abdominal or pelvic pain
- Feeling full quickly or persistent bloating
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
- Unexplained fatigue
Because these symptoms overlap with many noncancer conditions, it’s important to talk with your clinician if they persist.
Uterine cancer symptoms
Uterine (endometrial) cancer is often detected early because symptoms are more noticeable, such as:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause
- Bleeding between periods
- Pelvic pain or pressure
Any unexpected bleeding should be evaluated promptly.
Treatments
Your treatment plan is customized based on the cancer type, stage and personal goals, including future fertility when possible. A multi-disciplinary team of gynecologic oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists and supportive care specialists will guide your care.
Ovarian cancer treatments
Surgery
Surgery is often the first step, which may include:
- Oophorectomy (removal of ovaries and surrounding tissue)
- Lymph node removal to assess spread
- Fertility-saving surgery when cancer is confined to one ovary
Chemotherapy
Often used after surgery or for advanced stages. Options may include:
- Standard systemic chemotherapy
- Anti-angiogenesis drugs (cutting off tumor blood supply)
- Intraperitoneal chemotherapy, delivered directly into the abdomen
Uterine cancer treatments
Surgery
The most common treatment is surgical removal of the uterus, often including:
- Hysterectomy (uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries)
- Lymph node removal to check for spread
Radiation therapy
Used when cancer is more advanced or as an alternative for those unable to undergo surgery:
- External beam radiation therapy
- Brachytherapy (internal radiation)
Hormone therapy
Progestin-based therapy may help slow or prevent cancer spread in specific cases.
Chemotherapy
Used after surgery or for more advanced disease to destroy remaining cancer cells.