3 Common Indicators of Uterine Cancer
Treatment options for uterine cancer vary based on the severity of the cancer, as well as your age and overall health. The most common treatment options may include radiation therapy, surgery, hormone therapy or chemotherapy. Consult with your physician or oncologist if you experience any symptoms or indicators of the disease to determine the most appropriate course of action for treatment.
Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
Some women with uterine cancer do not experience any symptoms. The most common symptom, however, is unusual or abnormal vaginal bleeding, discharge or spotting. You may notice blood-streaked or watery discharge or blood within urine when uterine cancer develops. This symptom commonly affects women who are experiencing menopause or older women after menopause.
Pain When Urinating
Some women, in addition to vaginal bleeding, experience pain when urinating. This indicator is also common with yeast or bacterial infections, so most physicians perform additional testing to rule out or diagnose uterine cancer.
Pelvic Pain
Pain in the pelvic area and discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse is a common indicator of uterine cancer. Physicians commonly examine the pelvic area and check the vagina, ovaries, rectum and uterus for signs of uterine cancer. It is also common for physicians to perform a Pap test or a transvaginal ultrasound to determine if your pain in the pelvic area is in fact uterine cancer.
Conclusion
Uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer, is one of the most common types of cancer that affects the reproductive organs of women. Approximately 40,000 women are diagnosed with the disease each year in the United States at the average age of 60, according to MD Anderson Cancer Center. However, more and more women are being diagnosed with uterine cancer before menopause and at least 5 percent of cases occur in women before they turn 40. Early detection is key for treating uterine cancer; therefore, it is important to know the signs and symptoms of the disease.
