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  • Uterine cancer

Introduction

Uterine cancer

Learn more about uterine cancer (also called cancer of the uterus) including types, symptoms, risk factors, steps to diagnosis, and treatment options.

What is uterine cancer?

What is uterine cancer?

Uterine cancer, also called cancer of the uterus, occurs when abnormal cells develop in the uterus (womb) and begin growing in an uncontrolled way.1

The uterus is part of the female reproductive system, and is around the size and shape of a hollow, upside-down pear. The uterus is located low in the abdomen between the bladder and rectum and is connected to the vagina via the cervix (the neck of the uterus).1

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

 

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Diagnosis

Diagnosing uterine cancer

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
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Treatment options

Treatment options for uterine cancer

Treatment recommended for uterine cancer depends on different factors including the type, stage, and severity of cancer, as well as the patient’s general health, age, and personal preferences.2,3 Treatment options may include:1-3

 

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.

Radiation Therapy

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.

Chemotherapy

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.

Hormone therapy

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.

Immunotherapy

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

Targeted Therapy
An Asian woman with cancer is consulting her doctor. The two women are seated at a table together. The patient is wearing a bandana to hide her hair loss. The medical professional is showing the patient test results on a digital tablet. They are discussing a treatment plan.

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

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Support services

Support services

Cancer Council Australia

Australia's leading cancer charity, Cancer Council aims to lead a cohesive approach to reduce the impact of cancer.

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Australian Cancer Research Foundation

ACRF funds cutting-edge cancer research by providing scientists with advanced technology and infrastructure.

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Australian Gynaecological Cancer Foundation (AGCF)

AGCF funds research into all types of gynaecological cancers to improve screening, treatment, and outcomes for women.

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  1. 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].
  2. Cancer Australia. Endometrial cancer. October 2023. Available: https://www.canceraustralia.gov.au/cancer-types/endometrial-cancer/overview [accessed February 2024].
  3. Cancer Australia. Uterine sarcoma. October 2023. Available: https://www.canceraustralia.gov.au/cancer-types/uterine-sarcoma/overview [accessed February 2024].

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Disclaimer:

This website is provided for information purposes only. Nothing on this website is intended to be used as medical advice, or to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. It should not be used as a substitute for your own health professional's advice. Any medical procedure or treatment carries risks. Before proceeding with treatment, you should discuss the risks and benefits of the treatment with an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Individual treatment outcomes and experiences will vary.

This website is provided for information purposes only. Nothing on this website is intended to be used as medical advice, or to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. It should not be used as a substitute for your own health professional's advice. Any medical procedure or treatment carries risks. Before proceeding with treatment, you should discuss the risks and benefits of the treatment with an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Individual treatment outcomes and experiences will vary.
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