Understanding Womb Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Uterine cancer, also referred to as womb cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the uterus, the organ where a baby grows during pregnancy. Most cases of womb cancer begin in the lining of the uterus, known medically as the endometrium. This specific type of cancer is often called endometrial cancer. The severity of womb cancer largely depends on its size, whether it has spread, and your overall health.

Before we delve into the specifics, it's important to clarify two points. First, for the sake of simplicity, I will use the term "womb cancer" throughout this discussion, though it is synonymous with uterine or endometrial cancer. Second, while I am a registered doctor in the UK, this blog post is intended solely as an educational resource and should not replace advice from your own healthcare provider.

Let's begin by exploring the potential causes of womb cancer. Elevated levels of the hormone estrogen are one of the primary factors that can increase your risk. This is particularly true if you are overweight, take certain types of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), have never given birth, suffer from polycystic ovarian syndrome, or experienced menopause after the age of 55. Additionally, your risk may be higher if you have diabetes, a family history of bowel, ovarian, or womb cancer, or if you have inherited a rare gene that causes Lynch syndrome. Other risk factors include taking medications like tamoxifen, which is used to treat breast cancer, or having undergone radiotherapy on your pelvis in the past.

Now that we understand some of the potential causes, let's discuss the symptoms of womb cancer. The main symptoms include unusual vaginal bleeding or spotting after menopause, heavy periods, bleeding between periods, and changes in vaginal discharge. Other less specific symptoms can include a lump or swelling in your abdomen or pelvis, persistent pain in your lower back or pelvis, pain during sex, and blood in your urine.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is crucial to see your doctor or healthcare provider. While it may feel embarrassing, healthcare professionals are accustomed to discussing these kinds of symptoms. It's also important to note that having these symptoms does not necessarily mean you have womb cancer, as they can be caused by various conditions. However, getting these symptoms checked by a doctor is essential because early detection can make treatment more manageable.

When you visit your healthcare provider, they will ask you about your health, family medical history, and specific symptoms. It is vital to mention if you or your family have a history of cancer or Lynch syndrome. The doctor will likely perform a physical examination, which may involve undressing from the waist down and covering yourself with a sheet. The doctor will wear gloves and may feel inside your vagina with two fingers while pressing on your abdomen to check for any abnormalities. They may also use a speculum to examine your cervix and possibly feel inside your rectum.

Before these examinations, your doctor should explain the procedures and address any questions you may have. You can also request a female doctor if that makes you more comfortable, and you are entitled to have a chaperone present during the examination.

Depending on the findings, your doctor may refer you for further tests or to a specialist. This referral might be urgent, typically within two weeks, if your symptoms suggest a more serious condition. However, an urgent referral does not necessarily mean you have cancer.

If referred to a specialist, you may undergo additional tests, including a scan of your womb, a biopsy to remove cells from the lining of your womb, and possibly blood tests. You should receive the results within a few weeks, but if there is a delay, it does not necessarily indicate a problem. You can always contact the hospital or doctor for an update.

Once the results are in, a specialist will explain what they mean and discuss the next steps. If diagnosed with womb cancer, you may need further tests, such as CT scans, MRI scans, PET scans, a colonoscopy, a chest X-ray, and genetic tests for Lynch syndrome. These tests help determine the size and spread of the cancer, which is crucial for planning treatment.

Treatment options for womb cancer may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or a combination of these approaches. The specific treatment plan will depend on your individual circumstances. Your specialist care team will explain the treatment options, their benefits, and potential side effects. They will also work with you to create a personalized treatment plan and help you manage any side effects, including dietary changes. If fertility is a concern, they will discuss the impact of treatment on your fertility.

For more detailed information on treatment, further investigations, or Lynch syndrome, please refer to the resources provided in the description box of the video. If you found this information helpful, please consider liking the video, sharing it with someone who might benefit, or leaving a comment with any questions or feedback. Your support is greatly appreciated.

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