Uterine cancer begins in the lining of the uterus, also known as the endometrium. This form of cancer often occurs in women over 50 and has an average age of diagnosis at 60. Although it’s rare, it isn’t unheard of that younger women can be diagnosed with uterine cancer.
If untreated, uterine cancer can spread to other parts of the body like the bladder, rectum, ovaries, or even more distant organs. That being said, it’s important to know the signs and symptoms of uterine cancer, such as…
1. Unusual Vaginal Bleeding
One of the earliest signs of uterine cancer is unusual vaginal bleeding, spotting, or discharge. Whether your period flow is heavier than usual or later than usual, the bleeding will be different than usual, which can be a symptom of uterine cancer.
It’s also possible that you experience unusual discharge without signs of blood. Either way, this is an important symptom that should not be ignored.
This next symptom of uterine cancer is often one of the first ones patients notice…
2. Painful Urination
A common symptom of uterine cancer is difficult or painful urination. While this is normally a sign of a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), it’s also a possible symptom of urine cancer. Either way, it’s hard to know for sure unless you speak to your physician.
This symptom isn’t the only painful sign of uterine cancer…
3. Pain in the Pelvic Area
More often than not, uterine cancer patients experience feelings of pain or cramping in the pelvic area. This pain is due to the tumor blocking the cervical canal, keeping the blood from being expelled. This pain is often described as a feeling of fullness, and can also be experienced in your lower abdomen.
Uterine cancer not only affects your body but also your lifestyle…
4. Painful Intercourse
When you have uterine cancer, your sex life can be dramatically affected, as intercourse can become painful. More often than not, uterine cancer requires your ovaries to be removed. The ovaries produce female hormones that work to keep vaginal tissue moist and flexible, meaning intercourse becomes painful.
The next symptom of uterine cancer is often unexpected…
5. Vaginal Bleeding After Menopause
While postmenopausal bleeding has various causes, uterine cancer is one of the most serious conditions. Although this only happens in a small number of cases, this symptom must be taken seriously. If you experience even a small amount of bleeding after menopause, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as you can so you can rule out serious causes like cancer.
Uterine cancer can cause high amounts of stress, as seen by this next symptom…
6. Unintentional Weight Loss
When a patient is diagnosed with uterine cancer, the individual is bound to be stressed. With stress often comes a loss of appetite, which can lead to unintentional weight loss. Plus, uterine cancer can cause painful urination or bowel movements, which makes eating all the more unappealing.
If this symptom applies to you, be sure to contact your physician. Especially if you experience other symptoms with weight loss, it’s important to ensure everything in your body is working properly.
This next symptom often comes hand-in-hand with stress…
7. Fatigue
While fatigue is a common outcome of everyday stressors, it becomes concerning when it happens for an extended period of time. This symptom of uterine cancer is often paired with other symptoms like mood changes, joint pains, headaches, and more as the body works to fight off illness.
