We also provide extensive supportive services, including genetic testing and counseling.
- Specialized expertise in treating every stage and subtype of gynecologic cancer. Go to Conditions Treated
- Advanced treatment options, including fertility-sparing procedures and intraoperative radiation therapy. Go to Treatments
- Team-based approach to treatment so that care is tailored to your needs. Go to Your Care Team
- Clinical trials to provide early access to promising therapies available only at Stanford or select medical centers. Go to Clinical Trials
- Comprehensive support services to help you and your family focus on health and healing. Go to Supportive Services
- Ease of access so that the services you need are conveniently available, anywhere and anytime. Go to Connecting to Care
Stanford Health Care’s Gynecologic Cancer Program offers a team of internationally recognized experts from a range of specialties, including gynecologic oncology, radiation oncology and genetics.
We are committed to offering you the most effective care based on the latest scientific data. Our robust research program and clinical trials have informed many of the leading technologies and approaches used to diagnose and treat gynecologic cancers today.
Our cancer specialists have in-depth training in diagnosing and treating all types of gynecologic cancers, no matter how complicated or rare. These include:
Our doctors help define the national protocols for gynecologic cancer diagnosis and treatment through their active roles in the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Guideline Panels.
Stanford Medicine doctors are leading academic researchers who apply the same innovative drive to the delivery of your care. They are at the forefront of new diagnostic and treatment advances.
INNOVATION HIGHLIGHTS
- The Gynecologic Cancer Program is home to the Cooperative Ovarian Cancer Group, a group of ovarian cancer researchers from leading medical centers around the world dedicated to discovering new therapies for ovarian cancer.
- Our clinical trials investigate treatments that are offered only at Stanford Health Care, such as a vaccine that allows your body’s T-cells to attack a tumor by suppressing a protein inside the tumor called CD47.
- We partner with experts across Stanford University, as well as leading companies in Silicon Valley, to develop new technologies that improve patient care, including robot-assisted surgeries that are minimally invasive.
Understanding differences in genes and tumor molecules helps us customize treatment. That is why our doctors and researchers designed a test called the solid tumor actionable mutation panel. Using this test, we can identify the unique genetic fingerprint of your cancer to better understand which treatment might be best for you.
Learn more about the treatment and care paths for the following conditions:
We offer several treatments for any type of gynecologic cancer, including surgery, radiotherapy, and medical therapy. Because our program uses a multispecialty approach, we can easily combine input from various doctors and researchers in planning your care.
Surgery is highly effective and involves removing a tumor and surrounding tissue. It is one of the most commonly used treatments for gynecologic cancer. Types of surgical therapy include:
- Hysterectomy
- Sentinel node mapping
- Salpingo-oophorectomy, or surgically removing the fallopian tubes and ovaries
- D&C (dilation and curettage)
- Laser surgery and laser therapy
Radiotherapy uses radiation to destroy cancer cells and slow the growth of tumors. It is safe and often used in combination with surgery or medical therapy. Types of radiotherapy include:
Cancer medications target cancer through medications taken orally, intravenously, or by injection. Stanford Health Care is leading the way in discovering some of the most advanced medications. Medical oncology therapies include:
- Chemotherapy
- HIPEC therapy for metastatic cancers
- Hormone therapy
- Immunotherapy therapy
- Targeted therapy
- Investigational treatments, including PARP inhibitors, immunotherapies such as dendritic cell therapy, and ovarian cancer vaccines
Cancer tumors have unique genes or proteins called biomarkers. By identifying these biomarkers, doctors can choose a treatment designed for that cancer. Some biomarkers can also help your care team monitor the tumor during and after treatment. Our experienced pathologists perform biomarker testing and work with your doctor to develop your treatment plan.
Your wellness plays a role in the success of your treatment. We offer our Circle of Care to assist you and your family throughout your cancer journey. Whether its spiritual counseling, a new wig, or help with your finances, we’re here for you whenever you need us.
Innovation Through Clinical Research
Some of Silicon Valley’s brightest scientific minds are at the Stanford Cancer Institute and the Stanford Medicine Cancer Center. Medical discoveries and clinical advances happen here. Our physicians and scientists work every day to improve cancer prevention, detection, and care. We offer advanced diagnostics, the latest treatment technologies and techniques, and pioneering therapies in development through clinical trials. Let us put innovation to work for you.
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are research studies that evaluate a new medical approach, device, drug, or other treatment. As a Stanford Health Care patient, you may have access to the latest, advanced clinical trials.
Open trials refer to studies currently recruiting participants or that may recruit participants in the near future. Closed trials are not currently enrolling, but similar studies may open in the future.
To learn more about the clinical trials we offer, visit: Stanford Cancer Institute Clinical Trials.
We know cancer is more than a condition—it's one of life's greatest disruptors. We offer you and your caregivers the support you need at every step of the way, including a team that actively listens, develops a plan for your unique situation, and stays with you from diagnosis to treatment and beyond.
Through teamwork, our doctors continually advance our approach to gynecologic cancer treatment and improve the care experience. At weekly review meetings, experts from multiple disciplines review cases that require more complex recommendations.
Our extended care team embodies the same cooperative spirit to provide support for all your individual physical, emotional, and daily living needs. Our goal is to maximize treatment success while minimizing the impact that a cancer diagnosis and its treatment can have on your life.
Your Doctors
Gynecologic Oncologist
Gynecologic oncologists are gynecologists with advanced training in the treatment of women with cancer of the reproductive organs. They will be the first doctor you see, and they will oversee all aspects of your care, from diagnosis to treatment to follow-up care.
View All {0} Gynecologic Oncologists »Radiation Oncologist
Radiation oncologists have specialized training in using high-energy radiation to destroy cancer or prevent its spread while protecting healthy tissue.
View All {0} Radiation Oncologists »Advanced Practice Provider
Our skilled nurse practitioners specialize in diagnosing and treating gynecologic cancers. They see patients independently and occasionally alongside your doctor. APPs can give you a thorough exam, write prescriptions, and help prevent or treat any issues. Our APPs meet weekly to discuss patient needs.
View All 3 Gynecologic Cancer APPs »Genetic Counselors
Some gynecologic cancers have a genetic component. Our counselors from the Cancer Genetics Program can guide you through decision-making about genetic testing for you and your family.
Extended Care Team
Nurses and Nurse Coordinators (RNs)
Nurses and nurse coordinators are registered nurses who coordinate your care with your gynecologic cancer team. They guide you from your first contact through follow-up care and help you find counseling, financial, and other support services.
Care Coordinators
Care coordinators provide you with information and assistance before and during your appointment.
- Medical Assistant: Medical assistants work with our team to help provide care. They may prepare you for an examination, assist your doctor, or take your vital signs before your appointment.
- Patient Care Coordinator: Our patient care coordinators help you with scheduling appointments and accessing your lab results. They are your first line of contact before you see your provider and will guide you during your urologic cancer care.
- Patient Access Representative: Patient access representatives can answer your questions about health insurance coverage, help you apply for health insurance, and refer you to our financial counselors.
Research Coordinators
Doctors at Stanford Medicine Cancer Center participate in research efforts to advance the understanding of gynecologic cancers and their treatment. Research coordinators help screen candidates for possible participation in clinical research trials.
Cancer Care Services
Thoughtfully designed care considers your emotional and spiritual health. Through our signature Circle of Care we offer you and your loved ones services that can help you stay strong through your treatment and recovery.
Our wide range of support services offer a single point of contact to assess your needs and connect you to the help you need. Contact our Cancer Care Services for your personal support plan.
We make access to care as simple as possible. We anticipate what you need and provide support when you need it. Our network of locations puts our services within your reach. User-friendly digital health tools help you stay connected with your care team. We accept most insurance plans and offer discounted transportation, short-stay options, and international travel and translation services. We help make sense of the details, so you can make decisions that are right for you.
Gynecologic cancer care is accessible and convenient at Stanford Health Care. Our scheduling staff can coordinate your appointments if needed, so that you can see multiple providers during a single trip.
For Referring Physicians
PHYSICIAN HELPLINE
Fax: 650-320-9443
Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Stanford Health Care provides comprehensive services to refer and track patients, as well as the latest information and news for physicians and office staff. For help with all referral needs and questions, visit Referral Information.
You may also submit a web referral or complete a referral form and fax it to 650-320-9443 or email the Referral Center at ReferralCenter@stanfordhealthcare.org.
HOW TO REFER
Email or fax a cancer referral form with supporting documentation to ReferralCenter@stanfordhealthcare.org or 650-320-9443.