Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month is observed during the month of September. Gynecologic cancers encompass all cancers of the female reproductive system, including the cervix, ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, vulva, and vagina. All women are at risk for these cancers.

Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month is a perfect time to encourage women to learn more about cancers of the cervix, vagina, vulva, ovaries, and uterus including early detection and prevention. Every year in the United States, about 89,000 women are diagnosed with and more than 29,000 die from a gynecologic cancer.

Each type of gynecological cancer has different symptoms, some of which may be difficult to recognize. While women should be familiar the symptoms associated with gynecological cancer, it is just as important for women to pay attention to their own bodies and take note when something is “off” or not normal. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has developed a symptoms diary that women can use to keep track of any unusual symptoms they may experience so they can share this in detail with a healthcare provider.