Body + soul

Many women wonder what they can do to prevent gynecologic cancers.

The most important thing is to know your own body and see a doctor if you feel that something is wrong.

Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking will all significantly reduce your risk for gynecologic cancer.

Taking hormonal contraception for five years or greater reduces your risk of ovarian cancer by 50 percent.

Lastly, if you have a history of breast or ovarian cancer in your family, talk to your doctor about your risk and the possible need for further testing or risk-reducing treatments.

As women get older, they need to learn what signs to look for that may indicate an early gynecologic cancer.

- Dr. Jennifer L. Young, Obstetrics-Gynecology, MUSC