Gynecologic Cancers

When you or a loved one has gynecologic cancer, turn to UC San Diego Health for your care.

You’ll find support and expertise from our compassionate cancer team at every step of your journey, from diagnosis through treatment.

Nationally Ranked Cancer Care

UC San Diego Health is ranked among the top 50 in the nation for cancer care and obstetrics and gynecology by U.S. News & World Report. We're also the only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in San Diego County. This is the highest possible rating for a U.S. cancer center, and it means you’ll receive the best possible care and support for your unique cancer. Studies show patient outcomes are better at NCI-designated cancer centers. 

Types of Gynecologic Cancers We Treat

Your UC San Diego Health care team treats all types and stages of cancers related to the female reproductive system, including:

Personalized Cancer Care

Treatments Tailored to Your Unique Tumor Type

Every person's cancer tumor is unique — this is why we personalize your care plan using molecular profiling of your tumor and genetic testing. When possible, you will receive a genomically targeted treatment and/or immunotherapy. This may be instead of or along with traditional treatments such as surgery or radiation therapy. In addition, an interdisciplinary team of experts meets regularly to review and discuss your care plan.

Comprehensive Treatment

We'll work with you to create a personalized, comprehensive care plan that fits your needs and supports you and your family throughout your journey. Your treatment may include one or a combination of the following approaches.

Surgery

Your doctor may recommend surgery to remove cancerous tissue and prevent cancer from spreading. Gynecological cancer surgery is often robot-assisted and uses less invasive techniques to reduce your recovery time.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy kills cancer cells and shrinks tumors. Depending on your cancer, you may receive radiation therapy alone or combined with surgery or chemotherapy. Rely on our radiation oncologists to recommend the best type of radiation therapy for you:

  • High-dose-rate brachytherapy: Places a tiny, radioactive pellet in or near your tumor
  • Whole pelvic radiotherapy: Uses a machine to deliver radiation to your reproductive organs

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or keep them from growing. You’ll most likely receive this medicine intravenously (through a vein or IV). But if you have advanced ovarian cancer, your doctor may recommend intraperitoneal chemotherapy. This approach delivers the medicine to an area of your abdomen where the disease has spread.

Clinical Trials

Advancing Cancer Care and Prevention

UC San Diego Health physicians are actively researching ways to improve cancer care. By joining a clinical trial, you may receive a new cancer treatment before it is available to the public. If your cancer has not responded to standard therapies, talk to your doctor about whether a clinical trial could be right for you.

Patient & Family Support Services

At UC San Diego Health, your care goes beyond treating disease. It also includes supporting you and your loved ones emotionally throughout your cancer journey. Most of our support services are free.

Browse All Support Services

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