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Gynaecological cancers are cancers that occur in the female reproductive system. These cancers occur when abnormal cells grow in an uncontrolled way and are named based on the organ or part of the body where they first develop.1 The ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus (womb), cervix (neck of the uterus), vagina (birth canal), and vulva (external genitals) are all parts of the female reproductive system.2
Symptoms associated with gynaecological cancer can vary depending on the location of the tumour, as well as its size and how fast it is growing. Symptoms of gynaecological cancer may include:1
- Abnormal or ongoing vaginal bleeding
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Abdominal swelling, pain, pressure, or discomfort
- Unexplained weight loss
- Change in bladder or bowel habits
- Pain during sex
- Itching, burning, or soreness in the pelvic region
- Lumps, sores, or wart-like growths in the pelvic region
There may be different reasons why you are experiencing any of these symptoms. If you have any questions or concerns, please speak with your GP or specialist.1
Risk factors associated with developing gynaecological cancers may include:1
- Older age
- Family history
- Certain gene mutations
- A previous cancer, such as breast or bowel cancer
- Reproductive history
- Exposure to hormones produced by the body or taken as medication
- Exposure to diethylstilboestrol (DES) in the womb
- Viral infection including human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Lifestyle factors, such as being overweight or smoking
If you have one or more of these risk factors, it does not necessarily mean that you will develop gynaecological cancer. For more information about risk factors, you should speak with your GP or specialist.1
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Types of gynaecological cancers
- Cancer Australia. Gynaecological cancers. November 2023. Available: https://www.canceraustralia.gov.au/cancer-types/gynaecological-cancers/overview [accessed February 2024].
- Cancer Council. Understanding cervical cancer. December 2023. Available: https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/cervical-cancer [accessed February 2024].
- Cancer Council. Understanding ovarian cancer. April 2022. Available: https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/ovarian-cancer [accessed February 2024].
- Cancer Council. Understanding cancer of the uterus. October 2023. Available: https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/uterine-cancer [accessed February 2024].
- Cancer Council. Understanding vaginal cancer. September 2023. Available: https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/vaginal-cancer [accessed February 2024].
- Cancer Australia. Types of vulvar cancer. September 2023. Available: https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/vulvar-cancer [accessed February 2024].
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