Clinical department

GynaecologicalOncology

The Department of Gynaecological Oncology focuses on ‘Comprehensive Care for the Whole Woman Through Every Stage of Gynaecological Cancer from Prevention to Palliation’

Gynaecological Oncology

About the department

What makes the department unique?

The Department of Gynaecological Oncology provides comprehensive care across the entire spectrum of gynaecological cancers, encompassing cancer awareness, prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, follow-up, survivorship, and palliation. The department manages cancers of the cervix, ovary, uterus, vulva, vagina, and other related gynaecological malignancies through a structured and evidence-based approach. Gynaecological oncologists play a central and coordinating role in delivering this continuum of care. Working closely with medical oncology, radiation oncology, pathology, radiology, anesthesiology, nursing, and palliative care teams, the department ensures integrated, multidisciplinary management. This collaborative model enables individualized treatment planning and seamless care delivery, with the gynaecological oncologist guiding patients through every phase of their cancer journey.

Read full overview

The Department of Gynaecological Oncology provides comprehensive care across the entire spectrum of gynaecological cancers, encompassing cancer awareness, prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, follow-up, survivorship, and palliation. The department manages cancers of the cervix, ovary, uterus, vulva, vagina, and other related gynaecological malignancies through a structured and evidence-based approach. Gynaecological oncologists play a central and coordinating role in delivering this continuum of care. Working closely with medical oncology, radiation oncology, pathology, radiology, anesthesiology, nursing, and palliative care teams, the department ensures integrated, multidisciplinary management. This collaborative model enables individualized treatment planning and seamless care delivery, with the gynaecological oncologist guiding patients through every phase of their cancer journey.

Care for women with gynaecological cancers presents unique clinical, emotional, and social challenges that differ significantly from other malignancies. A diagnosis of gynaecological cancer often impacts not only physical health but also body image, fertility, sexuality, family roles, and psychosocial well-being. Cultural expectations, caregiving responsibilities, and the need for sustained family and social support further shape a woman’s experience of cancer, particularly within the Indian socio-cultural context. Gynaecological oncology is a rapidly evolving specialty, with ongoing innovations across prevention, screening, surgical techniques, systemic therapies, radiation strategies, survivorship care, and palliation. While substantial advances have been achieved, there remains a continued need for focused subspecialty care to effectively implement these developments and translate them into improved patient outcomes. An exclusive gynaecological oncology service provides the time, focus, and depth required to address these complex and multidimensional needs. Dedicated specialists are able to deliver individualized, evidence-based care, ensure continuity across all phases of treatment, and engage meaningfully with patients and their families. Such specialisation also supports academic advancement, research, training, and innovation, ultimately contributing to better outcomes and enhanced quality of life for women with gynaecological cancers. The team remains actively engaged in continuous professional development and adopts recent innovations, evidence-based protocols, and advanced surgical and treatment techniques to deliver contemporary, high-quality oncology care. This integration of experience, specialisation, and commitment to excellence distinguishes the department as a trusted center for gynaecological cancer care.

The Department of Gynaecological Oncology is exclusively staffed by highly qualified and experienced gynaecological oncologists who are dedicated solely to the care of women with gynaecological cancers. This focused, full-time specialisation ensures that patients receive expert evaluation, individualized treatment planning, and continuity of care throughout their cancer journey. The department combines strong clinical expertise with a patient-centered approach, emphasizing ethical practice, clear communication, and compassionate care. The team remains actively engaged in continuous professional development and adopts recent innovations, evidence-based protocols, and advanced surgical and treatment techniques to deliver contemporary, high-quality oncology care. This integration of experience, specialisation, and commitment to excellence distinguishes the department as a trusted center for gynaecological cancer care.

Specialised expertise

Advanced technology

Multidisciplinary care

Personalised treatment

Message from the Head of Department

“Our department is committed to providing compassionate, ethical, and evidence-based care to women with gynaecological cancers. Through teamwork, research, and patient-centred care, we strive to achieve the best possible outcomes for our patients.”

Dr. Ujwala P WAssociate Professor & Head - Department of Gynecological Oncology
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Specialist care

Conditions we treat

Cervical Cancer

Ovarian and Primary Peritoneal Cancer

Endometrial (Uterine) Cancer

Vulvar Cancer

Vaginal Cancer

Gestational Trophoblastic Disease

Paediatric age group with Gynaecological cancers

Precancerous conditions of the cervix and vulva

Diagnostic Evaluation

Diagnostic Services & Capabilities

Pap Smear

Screening test for early detection of cervical cancer by checking the changes at cellular level in cervix

HPV Testing

Detects high-risk HPV infection linked to cervical cancer causation

Colposcopy

Detailed examination of the cervix after abnormal screening tests

Biopsy

Confirms cancer diagnosis by examining tissue samples

Ultrasound

Initial imaging for pelvic organs

CT / MRI Scan

Assessment of disease extent and spread

PET-CT Scan

Staging and response assessment in selected cases

Treatment Pathways

Treatment Options

Treatments

  • Surgery for gynaecological cancers as per the standard of Care
  • Minimally invasive cancer surgery by advanced laparoscopy equipment / latest Da Vinci Xi robotic system
  • Radical hysterectomy and staging procedures
  • Cytoreductive surgery for ovarian cancer
  • Sentinel Lymphnode mapping
  • Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for advanced ovarian cancer
  • Hysteroscopy and hysteroscopic procedures
  • Treating precancerous condition of uterine cancers
  • Treating precancerous conditions (preinvasive conditions like CIN 1/2/3) of cervix with conservative approaches (LEEP/cone biopsy)
  • Chemotherapy (in coordination with Medical Oncology)
  • Radiation therapy (in coordination with Radiation Oncology)
  • Combined modality treatment (chemoradiation)
  • Palliative and supportive care
  • Psycho oncology services
  • Hereditary Cancer Clinic and familial cancer counselling

Prevention and screening

Prevention & early detection

01

Lifestyle Measures

  • Avoid tobacco use in all forms
  • Maintain a healthy weight and active lifestyle
  • Follow a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
02

Screening Recommendations

  • Regular HPV test once in every 5 years or PAP smear for women aged 21–65 years
  • Clinical Breast Examination for women above 30 years
  • Mammography for women above 40 years or earlier in high-risk women, as per screening guidelines
03

Warning Signs to Watch

  • Abnormal vaginal discharge (blood-stained or foul-smelling)
  • Postcoital bleeding, intermenstrual bleeding
  • Postmenopausal bleeding
More guidance
  • Persistent pelvic or abdominal pain
  • Non-healing ulcers or growths in the genital area
  • Any lump in breast or discharge from nipple, change in breast size and shape, change in the skin over breast, Swelling in the armpit

When to visit

Any of the above warning symptoms or signs

For cancer screening and HPV vaccination

If any of the screening tests done elsewhere is abnormal

Facilities & capabilities

Advanced operation theatres

Full details

State-of-the-art dedicated gynaecologic oncology operation theatres with advanced laparoscopic and Da Vinci Xi robotic systems

Multidisciplinary tumour board

Full details

Multidisciplinary Tumour Board discussions

Advanced imaging services

Full details

Advanced imaging Services

Advanced pathology support

Comprehensive cancer care

Full details

Access to comprehensive cancer care services within the institute

Genetic counselling and testing

Full details

Provision for genetic counselling and high-tech advanced genetic testing

HPV DNA screening

Full details

Validated HPV DNA–based screening assays with genotyping capability, enabling accurate detection and type-specific identification of high-risk human papillomavirus infections.

Legacy

  • The legacy of the Department of Gynaecological Oncology at Cancer Institute (WIA), Adyar, is deeply rooted in the vision and lifelong dedication of Dr. Shantha V, whose commitment to cancer care—especially for women—laid the foundation for compassionate, ethical, and accessible oncology services. Her selfless service to patients and society earned national and international recognition and established Cancer Institute (WIA) as a symbol of trust and integrity in cancer care.
  • This legacy has been carried forward by successive generations of leaders and clinicians who have upheld and strengthened the department’s core values. Over the decades, the department has evolved through advances in science and technology while remaining firmly grounded in its original ethos.
  • Truth, transparency, and ethical decision-making in patient care form the cornerstone of the department’s philosophy. Every patient is treated with dignity, humanity, and grace, ensuring that clinical excellence is matched with empathy and respect. This enduring legacy continues to guide the department in its mission to serve women with gynaecological cancers and to train future leaders in oncology.

Achievements

7 Milestones
  1. 01
    Long-standing contribution to gynaecological cancer care in India for more than 7 decades
  2. 02
    Active involvement in academic training and research
  3. 03
    Contributing to publications of national relevance
  4. 04
    Participation in gynaecological cancer awareness and prevention activities and addressing more than 10,000 girls and women in the target age group in the last one year. Striving to achieve WHO call for cervical cancer elimination goals 90-70-90. Contributing to all three components: Screening, Vaccination and Treatment.

Contact Gynaecological Oncology

Associate Professor & Head - Department of Gynecological Oncology

Dr. Ujwala P W

Cancer Institute (WIA), Adyar campus