Uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer, is a type of cancer that starts in the lining of the uterus. It is the most common type of gynecologic cancer in the United States. In this blog, we will discuss the signs of uterine cancer and the actions that can be taken to detect and treat it.
Signs of Uterine Cancer
The following are some common signs of uterine cancer that women should be aware of:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding: The most common sign of uterine cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause. This can include bleeding between periods, heavier periods than usual, or bleeding during or after sex.
- Pelvic pain: Women with uterine cancer may experience pelvic pain or discomfort, which can be mild or severe.
- Abnormal discharge: Women with uterine cancer may experience an abnormal discharge from the vagina that is not related to menstruation.
- Difficulty urinating: Women with uterine cancer may have trouble urinating or a frequent urge to urinate.
- Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss can also be a sign of uterine cancer, as the cancer can cause a loss of appetite and a decrease in energy.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider may recommend the following tests to diagnose uterine cancer:
- Pelvic exam: During a pelvic exam, your healthcare provider will examine your uterus, ovaries, and other organs in your pelvis for any abnormalities.
- Transvaginal ultrasound: A transvaginal ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of your uterus and ovaries, allowing your healthcare provider to look for any abnormalities.
- Biopsy: During a biopsy, a small sample of tissue from the lining of the uterus is removed and examined under a microscope to look for cancer cells.
- Imaging tests: Your healthcare provider may also recommend other imaging tests, such as a CT scan or MRI, to look for any signs of cancer.
If you are diagnosed with uterine cancer, your healthcare provider may recommend surgery to remove the cancerous tissue. Other treatments, such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy, may also be recommended.
Prevention
While there is no sure way to prevent uterine cancer, there are some steps you can take to lower your risk:
- Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of uterine cancer, so maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a healthy diet can help lower your risk.
- Use birth control: Women who use birth control pills or other forms of hormonal birth control may have a lower risk of uterine cancer.
- Get regular screenings: Regular pelvic exams and Pap tests can help detect any abnormalities early, before they develop into cancer.
- Consider hormone replacement therapy carefully: If you are considering hormone replacement therapy to manage menopause symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits, as this therapy can increase the risk of uterine cancer.
In conclusion, uterine cancer is a serious condition that requires early detection and treatment. Women should be aware of the signs of uterine cancer and take action if they experience any symptoms. Regular screenings and lifestyle changes can help lower the risk of uterine cancer and improve overall health.
