Uterine Cancer

The uterus, or womb, is where the fetus develops during pregnancy. Uterine cancer is also known as endometrial cancer.

What are the symptoms of uterine cancer?
Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge, trouble urinating, pain in the pelvic area, pain during sexual intercourse and abnormal pap test results call all be symptoms.

How is uterine cancer diagnosed?
A medical exam and imaging, including ultrasound, and an endometrial biopsy usually can all be done in a gynecologist's office. Sometimes other tests, such as dilation and curettage (a D&C) are performed to obtain a better sample. Other imaging, such as CT and PET scans and MRI, may be ordered to see if the cancer has spread.

What are the treatments for uterine cancer?
Hysterectomy is the primary treatment. The ovaries and fallopian tubes may or may not be removed, depending on several factors. They are more likely to be removed if menopause has already occurred. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy may also be performed.

What are the risk factors for uterine cancer?
Uterine cancer most often occurs after menopause, though it can occur in younger women as well. Obesity and use of hormones to treat menopausal symptoms increase the risk. Women who have had more periods in their lifetime increase the risk, so women who have not given birth or who had an early menarche or later onset of menopause are all at higher risk. Women with a family history of colon cancer should discuss extra screening with their doctor. Women who have taken tamoxifen to treat breast cancer also should discuss the extra risk with their doctor.

What are some additional resources for learning about uterine cancer?
If you or your loved one is facing uterine cancer, CalvertHealth has a whole range of services designed to help you so you never take this journey alone. Please talk to your CalvertHealth provider or your Nurse Navigator, or check the service pages for information about treatments, services and support groups.