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Woman’s Hospital and Louisiana Governor’s Mansion Go Teal for GYN Cancer Awareness Month

Woman’s Hospital and the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion are going teal this September in honor of Gynecologic (GYN) Cancer Awareness Month. Woman’s Hospital is encouraging women to learn more about the symptoms and notice whether they are experiencing any new or recurring issues that may be cause for concern and talk with their doctors. The types of cancers that occur within the reproductive system include ovarian, uterine, cervical, vulva, and vaginal.

  • According to the National Cancer Institute:
  • Louisiana has one of the highest rates of GYN cancers in the nation
  • More than 200 new cases of GYN cancers are identified in Louisiana each year
  • Louisiana ranks 7th in the U.S. for deaths from cervical cancer

“While some GYN cancers do have symptoms, that is not always the case. Some may not have any obvious symptoms,” said Woman’s Gyn Oncologist Dr. Renee Cowan. “That is why preventive care and appropriate screenings are key. Every woman should see her doctor right away if she notices any unusual changes or something that is not normal for her. Early detection can help save lives, which is why it is important to see your doctor yearly. Louisiana First Lady Sharon Landry understands the need to raise awareness, and we are honored to have her support our efforts.”    

“As women, we often put the needs of others before our own, but our health must come first. By making time for screenings and regular check-ups, we give ourselves the best chance to stay strong for our families and communities. Together, through awareness and early detection, we can save lives,” Louisiana First Lady Sharon Landry.

Some common symptoms of gynecologic cancer include:

  • Abdominal or back pain
  • Bloating
  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding
  • Vaginal bleeding after menopause
  • Pelvic pain or pressure
  • Changes in bathroom habits

Woman’s Hospital offers comprehensive cancer care and individualized treatment to patients. Leading experts are committed to guiding a patient’s healthcare journey from diagnosis to treatment and providing support to help families feel confident.

About Woman’s Hospital

Woman’s is a specialty hospital for women and infants located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Since opening in 1968, it has welcomed more than 400,000 babies, making it one of the largest delivery services in the country and the largest in Louisiana. Additionally, Woman’s operates a level III-S neonatal intensive care unit; this designation allows them to care for infants who are extremely premature, are critically ill or require surgical intervention. The hospital is also recognized for its expertise in mammography as well as breast and gynecologic cancer care. As a private, nonprofit organization, all funds are reinvested into the hospital to continue Woman’s mission to improve the health of women and infants through the latest technology, a highly qualified staff and critical community programs and services.