Gynecologic Cancer Screening near Richmond, VA

Safeguard your well-being with compassionate, attentive care tailored to your needs.

What is Gynecologic Cancer Screening?

Screening tests play a crucial role in identifying disease before symptoms appear, making early detection one of the most effective tools in the fight against gynecologic cancers. Our cancer screening services are designed to catch early warning signs of conditions such as cervical, ovarian, endometrial, vulvar, and uterine cancers.

We use a variety of proven screening methods—including Pap smears, HPV testing, pelvic examinations, ultrasounds, and specialized blood tests—to thoroughly assess your health. By identifying precancerous changes or cancers in their earliest stages, we can provide timely interventions and significantly improve treatment outcomes.

Why Receive a Gynecologic Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer screening is an essential part of preventive gynecologic care and is recommended for several important reasons:

To detect abnormal cervical cells that could be signs of early-stage cancer or precancerous changes
To identify high-risk strains of HPV (human papillomavirus), which are known to contribute to cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers
To monitor ongoing changes in the cervix related to HPV infection, helping assess an individual’s risk for developing cervical cancer—particularly in younger women and individuals with a uterus
To help evaluate unexplained symptoms such as abnormal vaginal bleeding or pelvic pain, which may indicate underlying gynecological concerns

Routine ovarian cancer screening is not advised for individuals at average or low risk, as current research has not shown that it improves outcomes in these populations. However, for those with a strong family history of ovarian cancer or a known genetic predisposition—such as BRCA gene mutations—screening may be appropriate. This typically involves a combination of pelvic examinations, periodic ultrasounds, and blood tests that look for specific cancer markers.

Similarly, uterine or endometrial cancer screening isn't generally recommended for those without risk factors. Most of these cancers begin in the uterine lining (the endometrium). If you are considered at higher risk—due to factors such as obesity, polycystic ovarian syndrome, or a family history—your provider may recommend regular transvaginal ultrasounds and, in some cases, an endometrial biopsy to monitor for early changes.

As for vulvar cancer, routine screening is only necessary for individuals with certain medical conditions that elevate their risk. Though vulvar cancer is rare, accounting for less than 1% of female cancers, those with chronic skin conditions like Lichen Sclerosus, immune suppression (such as from HIV), a family history of melanoma, or a history of smoking may be more vulnerable. Screening in these cases involves careful visual exams of the vulvar skin and, when needed, magnification tools like a colposcope to closely inspect any abnormalities.

Who Needs Gynecologic Cancer Screening in Richmond, VA?

Cervical cancer screening is a vital part of preventative healthcare for anyone with a uterus living in Richmond, VA. Beginning between the ages of 21 and 25, individuals are encouraged to start regular cervical cancer screenings, even if they are not currently sexually active. These early screenings help detect abnormalities before they progress into more serious concerns.

For residents in Richmond, incorporating pelvic exams into your wellness routine in your early twenties allows providers to monitor changes over time. HPV testing typically begins at age 30 and is often paired with a Pap test to increase the accuracy of detection. Staying up to date with these screenings plays a crucial role in catching precancerous changes early.

It’s also important to note that screening guidelines evolve every few years. Previously, Pap smears were recommended annually. Today, depending on your age and risk factors, screenings may be advised every 3 to 5 years. This change reflects the growing emphasis on HPV testing, which has been shown to detect the virus responsible for 99% of cervical cancer cases before it causes any visible cellular changes.

For those in the Richmond area, prioritizing these regular screenings ensures you're staying ahead of potential issues and taking a proactive role in your long-term gynecologic health.

Benefits

Gynecologic cancer screening offers several important benefits for maintaining your long-term health:

Early Detection: One of the greatest advantages of screening is its ability to identify abnormal or precancerous cells before they progress into cancer. Catching these changes early allows for more effective and less invasive treatment options, greatly improving outcomes.

Peace of Mind: Undergoing regular screenings can help ease anxiety and give you confidence in your health management. Knowing you’re actively monitoring for potential issues empowers you to stay ahead of serious conditions.

Targeted Care: If a screening test reveals any irregularities, our experienced team is ready to guide you through your next steps. From further diagnostics to individualized treatment plans, you’ll receive care that is specifically tailored to your unique needs and concerns.

What to Expect During Your Screening

During your appointment, your provider may recommend one or more of the following important screening methods:

Pap Test: This test involves collecting a small sample of cells from the cervix to be examined under a microscope. Its main purpose is to detect early cellular changes that could lead to cervical cancer. It’s typically advised for individuals with a uterus starting between ages 21 and 25 and continuing at routine intervals up to age 65, as guided by your healthcare provider.

HPV Testing: Human papillomavirus (HPV) testing plays a critical role in cervical cancer prevention. Nearly all cervical cancers—about 99%—are linked to persistent high-risk HPV infections. This test checks for the presence of the virus in cervical cells, often using the same sample collected during a Pap test. For individuals aged 30 and up, HPV testing is often done alongside Pap testing and may allow for longer intervals between screenings when results are normal.

Pelvic Exam: A pelvic examination allows your provider to assess both the external and internal reproductive organs. This includes checking the vagina, cervix, uterus, and ovaries for any signs of abnormality or concern. While not specific to cancer detection, this exam remains a vital part of a gynecological checkup and helps uncover a wide range of health issues.

Genetic Testing: For individuals with a notable family history of cancer or known genetic predispositions, we offer in-office genetic testing to help assess inherited cancer risks. This process involves analyzing your DNA to identify mutations associated with cancers such as ovarian and breast cancer. The sample is typically collected using a simple saliva swab. Based on your results, we can tailor a prevention or monitoring plan that suits your specific risk profile.

Pelvic Ultrasound: This imaging tool is primarily used for individuals considered at high risk for ovarian or endometrial (uterine) cancer. A pelvic ultrasound is a non-invasive test that uses sound waves to create images of your uterus, ovaries, and surrounding structures. It helps detect structural abnormalities or early warning signs of cancer.

Bloodwork: For those who meet criteria for ovarian cancer screening, bloodwork may be included as part of the evaluation. A CA-125 test, which measures a specific protein that can be elevated in ovarian cancer, may be conducted alongside pelvic ultrasounds at scheduled intervals.

Throughout your entire screening experience, our team is committed to maintaining your comfort and respecting your privacy. Each part of the process will be explained thoroughly so you can feel informed and supported. Once your tests are complete, we’ll review all results with you and clearly outline the next steps in your care plan.

Why Choose The Center For Advanced Gynecology for Gynecologic Cancer Screening

Since its founding in 2018, the Center for Advanced Gynecology has remained committed to advancing women’s health by offering a wide range of expertise in both routine and specialized gynecologic care. With a strong foundation in minimally invasive procedures and advanced surgical techniques, our practice focuses on delivering thoughtful, personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Our team offers extensive experience in treating chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, pudendal neuralgia, and various forms of pelvic, bladder, vulvar, and vaginal discomfort—using non-surgical methods whenever possible. Over the years, we’ve expanded our services to include preventive and general gynecological care, such as cancer screenings, Pap tests, menopause support, hormonal evaluations, and customized hormone replacement therapies. We also provide comprehensive care for breast health, contraception management, urinary concerns, and pelvic organ prolapse, ensuring patients receive well-rounded, continuous support for every stage of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re in Richmond, VA, and looking to stay proactive about your health, gynecologic cancer screenings can be an essential part of your wellness routine. These screenings are most commonly used to detect cervical and breast cancer, but for individuals with a higher risk—such as those with a strong family history—they can also help monitor for uterine, ovarian, vulvar, and endometrial cancers. The goal is to catch any irregularities or early warning signs before they progress, allowing for more effective treatment options.

How often you need to be screened depends on a variety of factors including your age, medical history, and any prior abnormal test results. Our care providers will assess your individual risk and create a customized screening schedule to help you stay ahead of potential issues. Some people may need yearly tests, while others may only require screenings every few years.

Gynecologic cancer screenings are very safe and typically cause only minor discomfort, such as what you might feel during a Pap smear or pelvic exam. For those in Richmond, VA, it’s important to know that while there is a small chance of false positives or negatives, our experienced team ensures every result is carefully reviewed. If anything concerning is found, we’ll walk you through all the next steps with care and clarity.

Yes—particularly in the case of cervical cancer, where screening can detect cell changes before they become cancerous, effectively preventing the disease. For other types of gynecologic cancers, screening focuses on early detection, which is key for successful treatment. Residents of Richmond, VA can benefit greatly from staying on top of these exams, as early intervention often leads to the best outcomes.