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Department

Gynaecological Oncology

Comprehensive Care for the Whole Woman Through Every Stage of Gynaecological Cancer from Prevention to Palliation.

Comprehensive Cancer Care. Providing ethical and accessible treatment since 1954.

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Message from the Head of Department

Dr. Ujwala Prakash Wakpaijan

MD, Fellowship in Gynaecological Oncology (TMH Mumbai), Da Vinci Certified Robotic Console Surgeon, CCEPC, Six Sigma Certification (USA), Mentor EQUIP India & National Cancer GridAssociate Professor & Head of the 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.

Department 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, anaesthesiology, 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 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-centred 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.

When Should You Visit This Department?

If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms, consult our specialists:

Any of the above warning symptoms or signs
For cancer screening and HPV vaccination
If any screening test done elsewhere is abnormal

Diagnostic Techniques & Procedures

Diagnostic Techniques & Procedures

  • Pap smear for early detection of cervical cancer by identifying cellular changes in the cervix
  • HPV testing to detect high-risk HPV infection linked to cervical cancer causation
  • Colposcopy for detailed examination of the cervix after abnormal screening tests
  • Biopsy to confirm cancer diagnosis by examining tissue samples
  • Ultrasound as the initial imaging study for pelvic organs
  • CT / MRI scan for assessment of disease extent and spread
  • PET-CT scan for staging and response assessment in selected cases

Conditions Treated

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

Treatment Options

Prevention & Screening

Lifestyle Measures

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

Screening Recommendations

  • Regular HPV test once 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.

Warning Signs to Watch

  • Abnormal vaginal discharge (blood-stained or foul-smelling).
  • Postcoital bleeding, intermenstrual bleeding, or postmenopausal bleeding.
  • Persistent pelvic or abdominal pain.
  • Non-healing ulcers or growths in the genital area.
  • Any lump in the breast, nipple discharge, change in breast size or shape, skin changes over the breast, or swelling in the armpit.

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Our Experts

Facilities & Equipment

Legacy & History

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.

Key Achievements

Contact the Department

ujwala@cancerinstitutewia.org

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