Health conditions

Gynaecological cancer

Approximately 430 women are diagnosed with gynaecologic cancers each year in Western Australia.

Gynaecologic cancers include:

  • cancer of the vulva
  • vagina
  • cervix
  • uterus (womb)
  • ovary
  • fallopian tube
  • primary peritoneal
  • gestational trophoblastic disease (rare).

Diagnosis

Diagnosing a gynaecologic cancer can be a time of high anxiety for women because a number of investigations may be required before a diagnosis is confirmed.

Tests may include:

Treatment

Gynaecologic cancers may be treated with:

  • surgery
  • chemotherapy
  • radiation treatment.

These treatments may be alone or in combination which would involve seeing several specialists in a variety of settings.

The type of treatment will depend on the type and stage of the cancer.

You may be required to attend numerous appointments, across different hospitals.

Read more about cancer treatment.

Helping you along your cancer journey

The Gynaecology Cancer Nurse Coordination Service is a free statewide service aimed at supporting you and your family through diagnosis and treatment.

They are also a point of contact should you require information or support in the future.

The specialist gynaecology cancer nurses can:

  • explain and provide written information on your diagnosis and treatment
  • assist you and your family through treatment in all departments
  • refer you to other health care professionals where and when appropriate, for example psychosocial services, physiotherapy and social work
  • coordinate your care to ensure timeliness of appointments and treatment
  • act as a central point of contact.

This service is available Monday to Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm.

The specialist gynaecology cancer nurses can be contacted on:

  • Telephone: 6457 0855
  • Mobile: 0400 021 857
  • Mobile: 0419 952 496

More information

  • Cancer Council WA Helpline
    Phone: 13 11 20
    Provides, counselling and a comprehensive range of information, services and resources.
  • WA Psycho-Oncology Service
    Phone: 9382 7480
    A clinical psychology service that offers a confidential, free counselling service to patients and families living with cancer.
  • Solaris Care
    Phone: 9346 7630
    Provides counselling and complementary therapies for cancer patients and their families.

Acknowledgements

WA Cancer and Palliative Care Network


This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.