Uterine cancer

There are two main types of uterine cancer, 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 90-95% of all uterine cancers⁴
• Uterine sarcoma – develops in the muscle or connective tissue of the uterus and is a rare form of uterine cancer⁴

Uterine cancer cause a range of symptoms, which may include:^1-3

• Unusual vaginal bleeding (the most common symptom), including bleeding after menopause or changes in periods (uch as heavier bleeding, bleeding between periods, or prolonged periods
• Unusual vaginal discharge – may be watery or have an unusual odour
• Pain or discomfort in the abdomen or pelvic area
• Difficult or painful urination
• Changes in bowel habits

Having one or more of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you have uterine cancer, but it’s important to see your GP or specialist for a check-up and to discuss any concerns.^1-3

The exact cause of uterine cancer is unknown, but several factors may increase the risk of developing it. These 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 or reaching menopause later than usual
• Certain hormonal medications

Having one or more of these risk factors doesn’t mean you’ll develop uterine cancer. If you’re concerned about your risk, speak with your GP or specialist for advice.^1-3

Different tests may be performed to investigate symptoms and confirm a diagnosis of uterine cancer, including identifying its type and stage.^2,3 In addition to a physical and pelvic examination, tests may include:^1-3

• Pelvic ultrasound – an ultrasound uses soundwaves to create images of the uterus and ovaries. It’s performed using a small handheld device called a transducer. For an abdominal ultrasound, the transducer is moved over the surface of the abdomen. For a transvaginal ultrasound, it’s gently inserted into the vagina. Sometimes, both types are performed during the same appointment.
• Endometrial biopsy – a long, thin plastic tube is inserted into the vagina and used to gently remove a small sample of cells from the uterine lining. The sample is then examined under a microscope to check for signs of cancer.
• Hysteroscopy and biopsy – a thin 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. This procedure is usually done under general anaesthetic.

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