Emergencies in gynaecological oncology are influenced by the site of cancer, stage of disease, presence of associated comorbidities and the treatment received. Women with advanced cervical cancer may develop distressing symptoms and may present with acute admissions. Vaginal bleeding caused by endometrial cancer can be usually managed conservatively. If there is an associated pyometra, operative treatment for endometrial cancer should be preceded by intravenous antibiotic treatment to avoid septicaemia and other septic postoperative complications. In severe cases, respiratory compromise may require omission of laparoscopy or conversion to laparotomy and postoperative ventilatory support. Catastrophic haemorrhage after gynaecological cancer surgery is uncommon, owing to the extensive use of electronic haemostatic devices; however, persistent oozing from large dissected surfaces may lead to haematomas. The most common complications, which require admission during chemotherapy, are febrile neutropenia and vomiting. Complications of radiotherapy depend on radiation-related factors and patient-related characteristics.