Thousands of women are diagnosed with a gynaecological cancer every year. There are a range of different cancers and some are more common than others.
Reality TV star Jade Goody was just 27 when she died after being diagnosed with the disease. Earlier this week Sky Sports star Jo Wilson told how she had stage three cervical cancer and urged women to get tested.
But with symptoms including many which are triggered by other things it can be hard to spot. September is Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month which is aiming to help women know how to spot the signs of one of these cancers and when to speak to a doctor.
Dr Bryony Henderson, Lead GP at digital healthcare provider, Livi, is marking Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month by helping people to spot the signs and symptoms of gynaecological cancers and explain why it’s important to speak to a doctor if you’re concerned.
What is Gynaecological Cancer?
Gynaecological Cancer is any type of cancer that starts in the female reproductive system. There are five main types of this cancer including:
Ovarian Cancer – This cancer forms on the ovaries, where eggs are stored, and develops from abnormal cells causing a tumour. Anyone with ovaries can be affected by this but it usually impacts people over 50. According to Cancer Research UK there are around 7,500 new cases in the UK every year making it the sixth most common cancer in women in the UK.
Cervical Cancer – Cervical cancer develops when abnormal cells in the lining of the cervix grow and eventually form a tumour. It mainly affects sexually active people between the ages of 30 and 45. Cancer Research UK says there are around 3,200 new cases in the UK every year.
Womb / Uterine Cancer – This type of cancer forms in the womb or uterus and usually starts in the lining of the womb. It can also be known as endometrial cancer. According to Cancer Research UK there are around 9,700 new uterine cases in the UK every year making it the fourth most common cancer in women.
Vaginal Cancer - It’s extremely rare for cancer to start in the vagina, however other kinds such as cervical cancer can spread here. The exact cause of vaginal cancer isn’t known, but some factors can increase your risk of developing it such as age and exposure to HPV. According to Cancer Research UK there are around 25 new caes in the UK every year.
Vulval Cancer – Vulval Cancer can occur on any part of the external female sex organs. It is extremely rare, affecting 1 in 1400 people a year, with most patients being over the age of 65. However, it can affect younger people too. Cancer Research UK says there are about 1,400 new cases in the UK every year.
What are the common symptoms?
Whilst these cancers are different and will affect people differently, Dr Henderson says some of them can have similar symptoms. These include:
- Pelvic pain
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge
- Bloating or stomach pains
- Blood in urine
- Vaginal itchiness
- Lumps or soreness in or around the genital area
- Pain during or after sex
- Excessive urge to urinate
It's important to remember that these aren’t always symptoms of cancer and can often be related to a number of other less serious illnesses or infections. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms it’s always a good idea to get in touch with your doctor who will be able to review your symptoms on an individual basis.
Who is affected by gynaecological cancers?
Gynaecological cancer can affect women, as well as transgender and non-binary people assigned female at birth. Although statistics show the risk of developing gynaecological cancer increases with age, it can affect younger people too.
This is why attending regular cervical screenings is important as well as discussing any abnormal symptoms with your doctor at the earliest onset, especially if you have a family history of cancer.
How can you be tested for gynaecological cancer?
There are multiple ways to test for cancer and your GP will be able to refer you onto the right pathway, depending on symptoms and individual circumstances.
Particularly with more common cancers such as cervical cancer, routine cervical screening can help to prevent late diagnosis of cervical cancer. You should automatically be invited by your GP practice from the age of 25 if you are registered female at your surgery.
What are the treatments for gynaecological cancer?
The treatments available for gynaecological cancers also differ, with the most common being radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgery. These will only occur if there is certainty that the patient has cancer.
The journey that cancer patients endure starts with a diagnosis and the sooner any gynaecological cancer is detected, the better the prognosis usually is.
If you’ve ever found yourself dismissing or brushing off a health symptom, you’re not alone. Lots of people feel uncomfortable when it comes to speaking up about gynaecological symptoms, but you shouldn’t ignore them. Speak to your GP if you are worried and remember your doctor is there to help.
For more information on how to spot gynaecological cancer, along with side effects and further support, visit: https://www.livi.co.uk/medical-advice/gynaecology/
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