Health
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are Symptoms of Uterine Cancer?

Garry Crystal
Garry Crystal

Uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer, affects the lining of the uterus. Postmenopausal women are at higher risk for this condition. Women who have not had children are also thought to be at risk.

In postmenopausal women, the biggest symptom of uterine cancer is vaginal bleeding. The bleeding may at first be watery, with blood only seen slightly through the liquid. The blood flow may become heavier, and it is important to seek medical help immediately.

Another symptom of this cancer is a white or blood-colored vaginal discharge. There may be some pain while urinating. Other symptoms may include pain in the pelvic region and weight loss.

A diagram of the female reproductive system, including the uterus.
A diagram of the female reproductive system, including the uterus.

In the early stages of uterine cancer, there are a number of symptoms to be aware of. Slight to very heavy bleeding may occur between menstrual cycles. Bleeding after intercourse is another symptom that should be taken into account. After menopause, bleeding or spotting can be a symptom of this condition.

Cramping pains may occur, and pressure may appear in the pelvic or leg area. There may be unpleasant discharges that appear as a yellow or clear liquid. There may also be some pain or discomfort felt over the pubic area.

A yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes could be a symptom of uterine cancer.
A yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes could be a symptom of uterine cancer.

Although these symptoms may indicate uterine cancer, diagnosis cannot be made until qualified medical help is sought. There may be other reasons for these symptoms. If these symptoms occur, the diagnosis of cancer is not automatic, and other underlying problems may be the cause.

The symptoms of advanced uterine cancer are different from those of the early stages. Advanced symptoms include jaundice, or yellowing, of the skin and/or whites of the eyes. An overall feeling of fatigue is also common. Weight loss can be another symptom, accompanied by shortness of breath.

A uterine cancer diagnosis can only be made by a qualified medical professional.
A uterine cancer diagnosis can only be made by a qualified medical professional.

Problems in the bowel area can also occur. The bowels may become blocked, and there may also be a build up of fluid within the abdomen. There may also be some bladder problems, including incontinence. Hemorrhaging is another major symptom of uterine cancer.

If cancer is detected early enough, then the chances of successfully treating it are good. If any of the above symptoms occur, there should be no delay in seeking medical advice. Waiting to seek help will only be detrimental to any treatment or diagnosis by the doctor.

Discussion Comments

anon134288

i am just 33. i have been suffering from mild to moderate dysplasia for the past three years. what can I do?

jadesmith

Other signs and symptoms of endometrial cancer in its further or advanced stages include problems faced or excruciating sensations experienced when a woman tries to urinate, pains felt in the region around the pelvis, lump formation in the pelvic region, weight reduction.

anon118264

Do not rely on a Pap smear, pelvic exam, abdominal ultrasound, or transvaginal ultrasound alone. These may not detect cancer. Hysteroscopy with biopsy seems the way to go.

If this, or a similar test like a D&C is not offered by the doctor after hearing said symptoms, you should go to another doctor. Believe me, the only way to diagnose any type of cancer with 100 percent accuracy is biopsy. Even with this said, a false negative can be given because cancer cells were not collected during a biopsy - this can happen with a needle guided biopsy.

But with the hysteroscopy of the uterus the doctor is able to visualize the area and collect an appropriate specimen. Hope for the best to all of you.

googlefanz

Does anybody know what the uterine cancer survival rate is?

My mother is showing signs of what we think may be uterine or cervical cancer, and I just wanted to get some more information.

Thanks!

EarlyForest

@rallenwriter -- There are some other conditions that share the uterine cancer signs and symptoms.

For instance, fibroids in the uterus can also cause irregular menstrual bleeding, but are generally benign.

Another common condition that could cause these symptoms is endometriosis. This occurs when endometrial tissue (the lining of the uterus) begins to grow outside the uterus, into the surrounding tissue.

Finally, endometrial hyperplasia can also be behind irregular bleeding and heavy periods. However, it can develop into endometrial uterine cancer, and needs to be caught as early as possible.

Either way, your friend should go to the doctor immediately -- so much of the uterine cancer prognosis depends on being caught early, so even if she thinks she doesn't have cancer, she should still get it checked out.

rallenwriter

What else could these symptoms point to?

I have a friend who has been showing a lot of the uterine cancer symptoms, but was really hoping it could be something else.

Are there any similar conditions that have the types of symptoms?

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A diagram of the female reproductive system, including the uterus.
      By: isyste
      A diagram of the female reproductive system, including the uterus.
    • A yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes could be a symptom of uterine cancer.
      By: Oleksii Sergieiev
      A yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes could be a symptom of uterine cancer.
    • A uterine cancer diagnosis can only be made by a qualified medical professional.
      By: Monkey Business
      A uterine cancer diagnosis can only be made by a qualified medical professional.
    • Pelvic discomfort may be an indication of a possible case of uterine cancer.
      By: Marin Conic
      Pelvic discomfort may be an indication of a possible case of uterine cancer.
    • White vaginal discharge may be a symptom of uterine cancer.
      By: Photographee.eu
      White vaginal discharge may be a symptom of uterine cancer.
    • Painful urination is one possible symptom of uterine cancer.
      By: Chatchai
      Painful urination is one possible symptom of uterine cancer.