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:
Cervical Cancer
Endometrial Cancer
Ovarian Cancer
Uterine Sarcoma
Vaginal Cancer
Vulvar Cancer
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.
Gynecologic Oncologists A team approach to your care
Your care team puts you at the center of everything they do. Your doctors meet regularly to review your case, examine treatment options and develop a coordinated, personalized care plan. Find a gynecologic cancer specialist.
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.
Locations
Cancer Care When You Need It
The same-day cancer care clinic at UC San Diego Health provides fast, expert treatment for urgent cancer-related symptoms, improving patient care and quality of life.
Beating B-Cell Lymphoma
Katie Kinninger, UC San Diego retiree and cancer survivor, overcame B-cell lymphoma with CAR T-cell therapy, a type of immunotherapy. Now, she surfs, bikes and embraces life fully.
A Strike Against Pancreatic Cancer
Former MLB pitcher Danny Boitano faced his toughest opponent — pancreatic cancer. With resilience, top care at UC San Diego Health and faith, he is beating the odds.