There are two distinct forms of uterine cancer, which are based on where in the uterus the cancer develops:^1-3

• Endometrial cancer – begins in the lining of the uterus (the endometrium), and accounts for around 90% to 95% of all uterine cancers*
• Uterine sarcoma – develops in the muscle or connective tissue of the uterus, and is a rare form of uterine cancer

*Cancer Australia. Endometrial Cancer: Uterine cancer statistics. January 2024.

Uterine cancer may be associated with a range of symptoms, which may include:^1-3

• Unusual vaginal bleeding (one of the most common symptoms), including bleeding after menopause and changes in periods (e.g., heavier periods, bleeding between periods, continuous periods) 
  
• Unusual vaginal discharge – may be watery or smell unusual
• Pain or discomfort in the abdomen or pelvic area
• Difficult or painful urination
• Change in bowel habits

If you have one or more of these symptoms, it doesn't necessarily mean that you have uterine cancer. You should make an appointment with your GP or specialist for a check-up and to discuss any concerns that you may have.^1-3

The exact cause of uterine cancer is unknown, but different factors may increase the risk of developing uterine cancer. These risk factors may include:^1-3

• Older age
• Being overweight or obese
• Family history of uterine or ovarian cancer
• Certain genetic conditions
• Not having children
• Diabetes
• Thickened endometrial lining (endometrial hyperplasia)
• Starting periods at a young age and reaching menopause later than usual
• Certain hormonal medications

If you have one or more of these risk factors, it doesn't necessarily mean that you will develop uterine cancer. If you have any questions or concerns about uterine cancer risk factors, please talk to your GP or specialist.^1-3

Different tests may be performed to assess symptoms and diagnose uterine cancer, including the type and disease stage.^2,3 As well as a physical and pelvic examination, tests may include:^1-3

• Pelvic ultrasound – an ultrasound uses soundwaves to create a picture of the uterus and ovaries and is performed using a small handheld wand called a transducer; for an abdominal ultrasound, the transducer is used over the abdominal surface; for a transvaginal ultrasound, the transducer is inserted into the vagina; both types of pelvic ultrasound may be performed during the same appointment
• Endometrial biopsy – a long, thin plastic tube is inserted into the vagina and used to gently suck a sample of cells from the uterine lining; these endometrial cells will be examined under a microscope for signs of cancer
• Hysteroscopy and biopsy – a telescopic device with a light and camera (called a hysteroscope) is inserted into the vagina to allow the doctor to see inside the uterus and take a biopsy of the uterine lining; a hysteroscopy is usually performed under general anaesthesia

This treatment aims to remove the cancer, and uterine cancer may be treated by removing the uterus and cervix, and sometimes also the ovaries and fallopian tubes; surgery may be used alone, or in combination with radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

Radiation therapy – this treatment uses a controlled dose of radiation, usually in the form of high-energy x-rays, to help kill cancer cells or slow their growth and spread.

Chemotherapy – this treatment uses medications, usually given by injection or tablet, to help kill cancer cells or slow their growth and spread; chemotherapy can be used in conjunction with other cancer treatments.

This treatment uses hormones to control the growth and activity of cancer cells that depend on hormones to grow; it may be used to treat uterine cancer that has spread or come back (recurred), or if surgery is not an option.

This treatment helps a patient’s immune system fight the cancer, utilising various types of immunotherapies that work in distinct ways to treat different types of cancer.

This treatment uses drugs that are designed to attack certain features of cancer cells to stop their growth and spread

All cancer treatments may have side effects. The type and severity of side effects will vary between individuals.

You can ask your doctor for detailed information about the side effects that you may experience with any treatment recommended for you.¹