This month is Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month, organised by The Eve Appeal.
Did you know there are 5 different types of Gynaecological Cancer? Womb Cancer is just one.
What is Womb Cancer?
Womb Cancer is the 4th most common cancer in women – also known as Uterine and Endometrial Cancer.
Although Womb Cancer is more common in women who have been through the menopause, women of all ages must be aware of the symptoms.
The most common symptoms of Womb Cancer are:
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Abnormal vaginal discharge
Irregular bleeding is a common symptom of many other conditions, including endometriosis, fibroids, endometrial hyperplasia and polyps in the womb lining and only a small number of women with abnormal bleeding will actually have Womb Cancer, but, do not take that risk. If you have abnormal bleeding or discharge, speak to your GP.
Less common symptoms (provided by Cancer Research UK) are:
• Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen
• A swollen abdomen
• Loss of appetite and weight
• Tiredness or weakness
• Feeling or being sick
• Constipation
• Passing urine more often than usual
• Pain in the back or legs
It is important that if you are suffering with these symptoms you raise your concerns with your GP as soon as possible and do not be afraid to see an alternative GP if you want a second opinion. Early diagnosis means early and more effective treatment.
It is important to always see your GP about any unusual vaginal bleeding, which is usually the first sign of Womb Cancer. The earlier it is picked up, the easier it is to treat it and the more likely the treatment is to be successful. It is important that you go to your GP as soon as possible if you notice any worrying symptoms.
Can Cervical Screening detect Womb Cancer?
Even if you have recently had a normal cervical screening test, it is important to see your GP and get any unusual bleeding checked. A routine cervical screening test only takes cells from the cervix and only occasionally identifies Womb Cancer.
We are raising awareness of all 5 types of Gynaecological Cancers this month, including Womb Cancer, to help spread the word and end the stigma: it is important to open up and talk about any symptoms you have that may be causing you worry. Do not delay speaking to your GP.
The key thing is to know your body and get any unusual bleeding checked.
If you want more information about Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month 2016 or want to learn more about the work of The Eve Appeal, visit their website www.eveappeal.org.uk.
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