Gynaecological Cancers

Gynaecological Cancers

SASH can provide you with information and advice on gynaecological cancers and related reproductive health conditions so you are fully informed on your sexual health. We can also provide our chaperone service to reproductive health related appointments.

What are gynaecological cancers?

Gynaecological cancers are cancers that affect different parts of the female reproductive system. Currently there are 5 main types, each with their own symptoms, risk factors and treatment options.

• What are the different types of gynaecological cancers?
• Who is affected by gynaecological cancers?
• What are the symptoms?
• Are there treatments?
• How can I check if I am at risk of developing a gynaecological cancer?

What are the different types of gynaecological cancers?

These are:

• Cervical cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Uterine (Endometrial) cancer
• Vaginal cancer
• Vulvar cancer

There are also two rarer gynaecological cancers:

• Fallopian Tube cancer
• Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (pregnancy related tumours that develop in the uterus)

Who is affected by gynaecological cancers?

Gynaecological cancers can affect anyone with a female reproductive system, regardless of age, sexuality, or heritage. There are factors that can increase your risk, such as family history of breast, ovarian or uterine cancers, HPV infections, or hormonal factors, however someone without any of these can still develop a gynaecological cancer.

Every year in the UK, over twenty-two thousand new cases of gynaecological cancers are diagnosed, which is around 60 diagnoses a day. 

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms vary for each of the different gynaecological cancers with some overlaps.

Common symptoms across all of them include:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Bloating or swelling in your abdomen
• Constant pelvic pain or pressure
• Changes in bowel or urinary habits

Cervical cancer symptoms include:

• Unusual vaginal bleeding (after intercourse, between periods or after menopause)
• Abdominal vaginal discharge (may be watery, pink or smell bad)
• Pelvic pain or discomfort during intercourse

Ovarian cancer

• Feeling full quickly when eating
• Frequent or urgent need to urinate
• Changes in bowel habits and constipation

Uterine cancer symptoms include:

• Unusual vaginal bleeding (after intercourse, between periods or after menopause)
• Abdominal vaginal discharge (may be watery, pink or smell bad)
• Pelvic pain or discomfort during intercourse
• Feeling a mass or lump in the pelvic area

Vaginal cancer symptoms include:

• Unusual vaginal bleeding (after intercourse, between periods or after menopause)
• Watery vaginal discharge
• Pain during intercourse
• Feeling a mass or lump in the vagina
• Painful urination or frequent urinary tract infections

Vulvar cancer symptoms include:

• Persistent itching, pain or tenderness in the vulvar area
• Changes in the skin of the vulva, such as colour and thickness
• Lump, wart-like growths or ulcers in the vulvar area
• Bleeding or discharge not related to menstruation
• Pain or burning sensation when urinating

Are there treatments?

There are many treatment options which can be very successful when accessed early enough.

Options include different surgeries which remove the affected area such as a Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), Oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries), or Vulvectomy (removal of part or all of the vulva).

Other treatments include:

• Different types of Radiation
• Chemotherapy
• Targeted therapy
• Immunotherapy
• Hormone therapy
• Palliative care (for more advanced or recurrent cases)

As a lot of people are still unaware of the symptoms of gynaecological cancers, many people who have these cancers might not seek out medical advice early enough. When they finally do see a healthcare professional and the cancer is detected, it may have grown and therefore requires more invasive interventions and can reduce chances of survival. 

How can I check if I am at risk of developing a gynaecological cancer?

Regular screenings like Cervical Screenings (Smear Tests), pelvic exams, and being aware of your body's changes are key in the early detection of these cancers.

Everyone should 'know their normal' when it comes to their body and how it works. This means knowing all your lumps, bumps, marks and scars. Then if any of your 'normal' changes, speak to a healthcare professional as soon as you notice something unusual about your body.

At SASH we can provide advice and guidance, and also access to our chaperone service to gynaecological related healthcare appointments. For support from SASH, please get in touch.