Health Center - Reproductive and Pelvic Health
No matter your age, the health of your reproductive and urinary organs—your pelvic organs—is important. If something goes wrong "down there," it affects your overall health and quality of life. Get answers to all of your most pressing questions and put an end to embarrassing symptoms.
Preventing and Coping with Gynecologic Cancer
by Pamela M. Peeke, MD, MPH
Get regular daily exercise. You knew this one was coming, didn't you? Well, the studies are pretty convincing that moderate exercise (that would be a 30- minute walk four or five days a week) reduces your risk of endometrial cancer, probably by helping regulate weight and blood sugar levels.
Now, a few words for women trying to cope with a gyn cancer: Any cancer diagnosis is terrifying, but a major study published in 2003 found that women diagnosed with gynecologic cancer have a poorer quality of life-defined as physical, emotional, social and functional well-being- than even women diagnosed with breast cancer.
Not only are you scared to death about your health, tired and sick from the treatments, but you're probably also worried about your family. If you were premenopausal, suddenly being thrust into menopause carries it with it a whole host of emotional issues, not the least of which may be changes in your sexual function.
Here are a few coping tips to consider:
First, recognize that these feelings are perfectly normal. Also recognize that now, more than during any other time in your life, you have to take care of you. That includes such things as sleeping or resting when you're tired -regardless of the time of day or night- eating healthfully, preferably with the guidance of a dietician experienced in cancer care-and getting some kind of physical exercise when you feel up to it, even if it's just walking down to the mailbox.
Try to reframe your diagnosis in a positive manner. Use it as a reason to find a new meaning and focus in life. One major study found that such reframing, along with acceptance --defined as facing unfortunate realities that cannot be changed -- resulted in greater physical, emotional and functional well-being in women one year after they were diagnosed with gynecologic cancer. Additionally, the study found that women who sought and received comfort from someone in their life led to greater social well-being and doctor-patient relationships.
Bottom line: turn your caregiving inward. Take care of the person who needs it most right now: you.
