Gynaecological cancer

Cervical cancer develops when abnormal cells grow in the lining of the cervix. Australia’s National Cervical Screening Program and Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine program have helped reduce the number of cases.  Anyone with a cervix can get cervical cancer, including women, transgender men and intersex people. 

Ovarian cancer occurs when cells in the ovaries start to grow abnormally. This can lead to one or more tumours developing in one or both ovaries. Ovarian cysts are different from ovarian cancer and are usually harmless and painless.

Uterine cancer is caused by the development of abnormal cells in the uterus. It is often referred to as endometrial cancer as this is a common form.

Vaginal cancer starts when abnormal cells develop in the vagina. Cervical screening tests can pick up early cell changes in the wall of the vagina. 

Vulvar cancer occurs when abnormal cells develop in any part of a woman’s external genitals. It most commonly starts in the labia minora (inner lips), labia majora (outer lips) or the area between the vagina and anus.