Endometrial Cancer
Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options.
Helping you to understand
At Gynae Solution, we will use plain language to explain what you have, what the treatment options are and what your prognosis is in terms you can understand.
What are the symptoms of Endometrial Cancer?
Endometrial cancer can often be diagnosed at an early stage because one of the most common signs is that it produces abnormal vaginal bleeding. If endometrial cancer is caught early, then treatment can often cure the cancer.
Here are some of the most common symptoms that women can experience:
- Bleeding between period
- Vaginal bleeding after the menopause
- Pain in the pelvic and abdomen area
If you notice any of these symptoms it is important that you go to see your doctor.
Always listen to your body if something feels wrong!
How is Endometrial Cancer diagnosed?
If it is suspected that you have endometrial cancer your gynaecologist or GP may conduct one of more of the following tests:
- Examining the pelvic – this involves examining both inside and outside the vagina. He or she may press on your stomach to feel for any abnormalities or sensitive areas. A speculum may also be used to look into the vagina and cervix for abnormalities.
- Transvaginal ultrasound – during this procedure a wand-like device is inserted into the vagina and a video image of the uterus is then made. This can be used to look for abnormalities in the endometrium, uterine lining and other conditions that may cause the symptoms.
- Hystoscopy – this procedure involves inserting a camera through the vagina and cervix in the uterus, allowing the doctor to examine the uterus and endometrium.
- Biopsy – this involves taking a sample of the uterus, so that the cells can be analysed for any abnormalities.
If we believe that your cancer may have spread, we may also order imaging tests, such as x-rays, CT scans or MRIs.
Listening to you
It's important to find a consultant who will listen to your concerns to help explain and answer any questions you might have.
How is Endometrial Cancer treated?
Here are some of the treatment options that patients will endometrial cancer can be offered:
- Surgery – the procedure is known a hysterectomy. If you have this surgery you are no longer able to have children.
- Radiation – this targets and kills the cancer cells
- Chemotherapy – chemicals that are used to kill the cancer cells
- Hormone therapy – this medication is used to lower the levels of hormones in the body. Cancer cells that rely on hormones to grow may die from this treatment
- Targeted drug therapy
- Immunotherapy