What is a gynaecological oncologist?

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A gynaecological oncologist is a specialist in diagnosing and treating cancers of the female reproductive system, including:

• Ovarian cancer
• Uterine (endometrial) cancer
• Cervical cancer
• Vulvar cancer
• Vaginal cancer
• Gestational trophoblastic disease

Gynaecological oncologists are uniquely trained to handle the full spectrum of

gynaecological health, from benign conditions to pre-invasive diseases and advanced cancers.

Expert Training and Comprehensive Care

Becoming a gynaecological oncologist involves extensive training. In addition to being qualified obstetrician and gynaecologists (FRANZCOG) a subsequent 3-year sub-specialty fellowship is undertaken focused on training in gynaecological oncology.

This includes advanced surgical techniques and comprehensive cancer care management. As key members of a multidisciplinary care team, gynaecological oncologists collaborate with pathologists, radiologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and geneticists to deliver personalised and comprehensive care.

How is a Gynaecological Oncologist Different from a General Gynaecologist?

The main distinction lies in their level of specialisation and scope of practice:

General Gynaecologist:

• Focuses on women’s reproductive health, including routine care, menstrual disorders, pregnancy, menopause, and common benign conditions like endometriosis.
• Identifies potential signs of cancer and refers patients to a gynaecological oncologist for further evaluation and treatment.

Gynaecological Oncologist:

• Specialises in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of gynaecological cancers, in addition to the management of benign conditions described above.
• Provides advanced cancer care, including surgery, and coordination of adjuvant treatment (Radiation, chemotherapy, endocrine therapy) as needed and ensuring patients receive comprehensive care.

By combining expertise in surgery, cancer treatment, and supportive care,

gynaecological oncologists offer a highly specialised approach to managing

cancers of the reproductive system.