Gynaecological cancer

Gynaecological cancers start in a woman’s reproductive system or genitals. They include cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, vaginal cancer and vulvar cancer. Rare types of gynaecological cancer include cancers of the fallopian tubes and the placenta (pregnancy-related).

Types of gynaecological cancer

The more common types of gynaecological cancer are:

Cervical 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. 

Cervical cancer journey

Find out more about the treatment journey for cervical cancer, from diagnosis to survival.

Ovarian cancer

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

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.

Uterine cancer journey

Find out more about the treatment journey for uterine cancer, from diagnosis to survival.

Vaginal cancer

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. 

Vaginal cancer journey

Find out more about the treatment journey for vaginal cancer, from diagnosis to survival.

Vulvar Cancer

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. 

Vulvar cancer journey

Find out more about the treatment journey for vulvar cancer, from diagnosis to survival.