Uterine Cancer (Womb Cancer)

The exact cause of uterine cancer is not known but high oestrogen levels play a role in its development. Thus, prolonged exposure to oestrogen as a result of early menarche (first occurrence of menstruation) and late menopause increases the risk. Other factors include:

• A family history of endometrial (uterine) or colorectal cancer
• Diabetes mellitus
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Obesity
• Polycystic ovary syndrome

The main symptoms of uterine cancer are:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding:
  1. Heavy menstrual bleeding
  2. Irregular menstrual bleeding
  3. Postmenopausal bleeding
• Occasional pelvic pain
• Vaginal discharge

The main treatment for uterine cancer is the surgical removal of your uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. Neighbouring lymph nodes are also likely to be removed. Adjuvant (additional) treatments include:

• Chemotherapy
• Hormone treatment
• Radiotherapy

Additional therapy will depend on the stage, grade and type of cancer.