A gynecologic oncologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancers that affect the female reproductive system. This includes cancers of the ovaries, uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, vagina, and vulva. Gynecologic oncologists undergo several years of advanced training after medical school in both gynecology and oncology. They are experts in providing treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy tailored to these specific cancers. 

A person might be referred to a gynecologic oncologist if their primary care doctor finds something unusual in the reproductive organs, like a growth or abnormal cells. This can happen after an abnormal Pap smear, or due to symptoms like unusual vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, bloating, or changes in bladder or bowel habits. A gynecologic oncologist can help figure out the cause of these symptoms by using special tests and procedures to diagnose the issue.    

Common gynecological cancers include: 

• Ovarian cancer affects the ovaries and is often diagnosed at a later stage due to subtle symptoms. 

• Uterine (endometrial) cancer affects the lining of the uterus and is the most common gynecologic cancer. 

• Cervical cancer is often caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infections and can be detected early with regular Pap smears. 

• Vaginal cancer begins in the vagina, which is the hollow tube-like channel between the bottom of the uterus and the outside of the body. 

• Vulvar cancer is a rare cancer that begins in the vulva, the outer part of the female genitalia. 

A gynecologic oncologist may perform several diagnostic tests, depending on the type of cancer suspected. Common tests include: 

• Pelvic exams: A physical examination of the female reproductive organs to check for abnormalities. 

• Pap smears: A screening test for cervical cancer that involves collecting cells from the cervix to detect changes or signs of cancer. 

• Biopsies: A procedure where a small tissue sample is taken from the affected area (like the cervix or uterus) for examination under a microscope. 

• Imaging tests: Ultrasounds, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET) scans can be used to visualize tumors and see if the cancer has spread. 

• Blood tests: Some cancers produce substances called tumor markers, which can be detected in the blood. These tests help in both diagnosis and monitoring during treatment. 

There are various reasons why you may want to see a specialist, such as: 

• Your primary care provider recommends it. 

• Your condition requires expert knowledge and specialized care. 

• Your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment. 

• You need specialized testing or procedures. 

• You want a second opinion.  

It’s important to see a provider with expertise in your specific condition. Each provider profile in MediFind’s doctor database includes information on which conditions they treat, years of experience, research contributions, languages spoken, insurance plans accepted, and more.  

You can find a Gynecologic Oncologist in any of the 10 largest U.S. cities by clicking below:

Gynecologic Oncologist near New York, NY
Gynecologic Oncologist near Los Angeles, CA
Gynecologic Oncologist near Chicago, IL
Gynecologic Oncologist near Houston, TX
Gynecologic Oncologist near Phoenix, AZ
Gynecologic Oncologist near Philadelphia, PA
Gynecologic Oncologist near Atlanta, GA
Gynecologic Oncologist near Boston, MA
Gynecologic Oncologist near Dallas, TX
Gynecologic Oncologist near San Jose, CA

MediFind’s rankings are based on a variety of data sources, such as the number of articles a doctor has published in medical journals, participation in clinical trials and industry conferences, as well as the number of patients that provider sees for a given condition. Note that MediFind’s provider database is not based on user reviews, and providers do not pay to be included in the database. 

Most profiles in MediFind’s doctor database include a list of insurance plans accepted by that provider. However, it’s a good idea to contact the provider’s office to make sure they still accept your insurance, then doublecheck by contacting your insurance plan to confirm they’re in network. 

MediFind offers direct scheduling for certain providers using the “Request Appointment” button on that provider’s profile. If the schedule option is not available for a provider, tap the red “Show Phone Number” button on their profile to get their contact information. If you prefer to find providers who offer online scheduling, select “Schedules online” under the “Availability” category of the filter feature on the left side of the Gynecologic Oncologist search results page. 

Second opinions are an opportunity to confirm a diagnosis and its root cause, learn about alternative treatment options, or simply gain peace of mind. Many people, especially those with serious diagnoses, get second opinions so they can understand all their options and make informed decisions, so don’t hesitate to get one if you have any doubts or need more information or clarification regarding your care. Note that some insurance plans require second opinions, while others don’t cover second opinions, so be sure to confirm with your insurance provider first.   

Prepare for your appointment by gathering the following items: 

• Copies of medical records (dating back at least one year) 

• Your medical history, including illnesses, medical conditions, surgeries, and other doctors you see 

• Family history of disease 

• List of current prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements including names and doses 

• Allergies to medications, food, latex, insects, etc.  

• List of questions and concerns 

• Your insurance card 

You might also contact the provider’s office to see if they offer transportation or childcare services or if you’re allowed to bring a loved one for support or to take notes during your visit. 

Here are some sample questions: 

• Can you explain in simple terms what this condition is and how it’s treated? 

• What symptoms or side effects should I watch for? 

• What tests will be involved, and when can I expect results? 

• Are there other specialists I need to see? 

• What’s the best way to reach you if I have follow-up questions? 

MediFind’s Clinical Trials tool asks you a series of questions to help you narrow down your search by health condition, age, gender, location, how far you’re willing to travel, and more. Each question you answer filters down the number of trials until you find the ones that are most relevant to you. 

MediFind’s Latest Advances tool features summaries of recent articles published in medical journals. We use cutting-edge technology to scour medical publication databases for the latest research advancements on any given condition, then we simplify this information in a way that’s useful and easy to understand. 

Look for the filter feature on the left side of the Gynecologic Oncologist search results page. Select “Female” or “Male” under the “Gender” category to search for female or male providers exclusively. If the “Any” option is selected, it will pull results for both male and female providers. 

Cervical Cancer
Endometrial Cancer
Gestational Trophoblastic Disease
Ovarian Cancer
Uterine Fibroids
Vaginal Cancer
Vulvar Cancer

Look for the filter feature on the left-side of the Gynecologic Oncologist search results page. Select “Offers telehealth visits” under the Availability category to search for providers who offer virtual appointments (video calls). 

Reviewed on: 11/07/24  

By: MediFind Medical Staff 

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