Gynaecological Cancer

Leading gynaecological cancer care in Queensland

Mater's gynaecological oncology service is recognised as a state leader in the management of gynaecological cancers.

Our specialist teams provide comprehensive care for women diagnosed with endometrial, ovarian, cervical, vulval, and vaginal cancers, as well as those with hereditary cancer risk, pre‑invasive conditions, or complex gynaecological surgical needs.

We support women and their families at every step—with compassionate care, access to advanced treatments and clinical trials, and a commitment to research that drives better outcomes for women's health.

Your care team

Your care at Mater is guided by a multidisciplinary team of specialists who collaborate to deliver the best outcomes. Your team may include:

Gynaecological oncologists
Medical oncologists
Radiation oncologists
Pathologists
Radiologists
Clinical nurses
Fertility specialists
Physiotherapists and pelvic health specialists
Psychologists and Social workers
Dieticians

Treatment

Our gynaecological oncology service cares for both private and public patients, providing advanced treatment with a focus on minimally invasive techniques including laparoscopic and robotic surgery. These approaches can support faster recovery, minimise pain, and improve outcomes for women.

We work closely with Mater Research and the Queensland Centre for Gynaecological Cancer Research (QCGC Research), contributing to more than 20 national and international research projects that are shaping the future of gynaecological cancer care.

Mater is also one of the few centres in Australia trialling Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) for ovarian cancer—a promising treatment showing improved survival outcomes. As evidence grows, HIPEC is expected to become more widely available across gynaecological oncology units nationwide.

Supporting your journey beyond cancer

Have you completed active cancer treatment? Mater's Cancer Survivorship Service delivered by Mater Cancer Care Centre is here to support your health and wellbeing, helping you take confident steps toward recovery and embrace a vibrant life beyond cancer. Our experienced team is available to guide you through the physical, emotional and lifestyle changes that may follow treatment, including:

Physical health: Peripheral neuropathy or lymphoedema, bone and muscle health, menopause or perimenopause, diet and weight management.
Emotional wellbeing: Fear of cancer recurrence, mood changes, and difficulties with memory or concentration.
Lifestyle: Returning to work or study, sexuality or intimacy, self-esteem, body image and confidence.

Learn more and register here

Gynaecological cancer FAQs

What are the symptoms to be aware of?

Symptoms of gynaecological cancer vary, depending on the type and stage of the cancer. Some common symptoms may include abnormal or persistent vaginal bleeding or discharge, pelvic pain or pressure, bloating or swelling in the abdomen, changes in bowel or bladder habits, pain during sex, itching, burning, or soreness in the genital area, or lumps, sores or warts. These symptoms may be caused by other conditions, so it is always important to consult your doctor.

Symptoms can often be vague and non-specific. Patients know themselves better than anyone else – if they are experiencing persistent symptoms, they should see their GP. Writing symptoms in a diary and bringing it to an appointment can be helpful for both the patient and health care professionals.

What are the most common risk factors for developing gynaecological cancer?

Risk factors vary with specific types of gynaecological cancer, but generally include:

getting older
a family history
a genetic mutation relating to certain cancers
having had cancer previously
certain benign conditions
early or late menopause
exposure to hormones or certain chemicals
viral infection such as human papillomavirus (HPV)
lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity or poor diet.

What gynaecological cancer tests should I consider?

Depending on your personal and family history, you may need to have some screening tests or genetic tests to check your risk of developing gynaecological cancer. Screening tests can help detect cancer early when it is easier to treat. Genetic tests can help identify inherited mutations that increase the risk of certain cancers.

Some of the tests that may be recommended for you are:

Cervical Screening Test (CST)
This test checks for the presence of HPV, a virus that can cause cervical, vaginal and vulvar cancers. CST testing is recommended for all people with a cervix aged 25-75 every five years. CSTs can be performed by a health professional or by the patient themselves using a self-collect swab.
Pelvic exam
This external and internal exam involves the doctor feeling the uterus, ovaries and other pelvic organs for any abnormalities. It can help detect ovarian, uterine, vaginal and vulvar cancers.
Transvaginal ultrasound
This test uses sound waves to create images of the pelvic organs. It can help detect ovarian, uterine or fallopian tube cancers. It may be done if you have certain symptoms, abnormal pelvic exam results or a family history of ovarian cancer.
Endometrial biopsy
This test involves taking a small sample of tissue from the lining of the uterus (endometrium) and examining it under a microscope. It can help diagnose endometrial cancer or precancerous changes. It may be done if you have abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause.
CA-125 blood test
This test measures the level of a protein called CA-125 in the blood. CA-125 is often elevated in women with ovarian cancer but can also be affected by other conditions. The test may be done to monitor ovarian cancer treatment, check for recurrence or screen high-risk women.
BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene tests
These tests look for mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which produce proteins that help repair damaged DNA and prevent tumour growth. Women who inherit these mutations have a higher risk of developing breast, ovarian and fallopian tube cancers. These tests may be done if you have a strong family history of these cancers or if you belong to certain ethnic groups, such as Ashkenazi Jews.
Lynch syndrome gene tests
These tests look for mutations in genes involved in DNA mismatch repair. People who inherit these mutations have a higher risk of developing colorectal, endometrial, ovarian and other cancers. These tests may be done if you have a family history of these cancers, or if you have endometrial cancer at a young age.