Cancer is a word that can send a chill down anyone’s spine, but when it comes to certain types, like womb cancer, many women simply aren’t aware of the warning signs until it’s too late.
That’s a worrying reality, especially when you consider that only 15 per cent of women survive if this cancer is caught in its later stages.
Early detection, on the other hand, can mean a survival rate of over 90 per cent. So why is this ‘silent killer’ still flying under the radar?
Let’s break down what every woman needs to know about womb cancer, also known as endometrial or uterine cancer.
We’ll cover the symptoms, why they’re often missed, and what you can do to protect yourself and the women you love.
Why womb cancer is so often overlooked
Recent research from the Peaches Womb Cancer Trust in the UK has revealed a startling lack of awareness.
One in five women has never even heard of womb cancer, and more than a third mistakenly believe it can be detected with a routine cervical smear test.
Unfortunately, that’s not the case. While a Pap smear is vital for detecting cervical cancer, it won’t pick up womb cancer.
Cath Kennedy, a clinical specialist at the trust, stresses the importance of knowing the signs: ‘We want more women to hear about womb cancer, know the signs and when to seek medical advice.’
‘Any symptoms should be investigated by your GP or healthcare professional—don’t rely on the result of your last test.’
The symptoms you can’t afford to ignore
Womb cancer is often called a ‘silent killer’ because its symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for less serious conditions. But there are warning signs, and knowing them could save your life.
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding: This is the most common symptom. For women who have gone through menopause, any vaginal bleeding—no matter how light—should be checked out. For those who haven’t reached menopause, heavier periods, bleeding between cycles, after sex, or unusual vaginal discharge (especially if it’s pink, red, brown, or more watery than usual) are all red flags.
- Abdominal pain or discomfort: Persistent pain, a swollen tummy, or bloating that doesn’t go away.
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits: Needing to go more often, or experiencing pain when you do.
- A new, persistent cough: While less common, it can be a sign if the cancer has spread.
It’s important to remember that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, such as endometriosis or fibroids. But if you notice anything unusual, don’t wait—see your GP.
Why early detection matters
The statistics are sobering. Around 9,800 women are diagnosed with womb cancer in the UK each year, and the numbers are similar in Australia.
If caught early (stage one or two), about 92 per cent of women will live at least five years. But if it’s found late (stage three or four), that drops to just 15 per cent.
Former EastEnders actor Cheryl Fergison knows this all too well. She was diagnosed in 2015 after noticing back pain and abnormal vaginal bleeding.
‘There were some dark moments, especially at night, when I thought, “Am I going to die? Am I going to leave my husband without a wife, my son without a mum?”’ she shared.
Cheryl kept her diagnosis private for years, but now hopes her story will empower other women to speak up and seek help.
How is womb cancer treated?
Treatment usually involves surgery, with most women having their womb removed (a hysterectomy) to stop the cancer from spreading.
Depending on how far the cancer has advanced, doctors may also remove the fallopian tubes and ovaries. In some cases, radiation and chemotherapy are needed as well.
The extent of surgery and additional treatments depends on the stage of the cancer, which is sometimes only determined after the operation.
During surgery, doctors will check nearby organs to see if the cancer has spread.
Gynaecological cancers: The bigger picture
Womb cancer is just one of several gynaecological cancers, which also include ovarian, cervical, vaginal, and vulval cancers.
Together, these cancers claim the lives of 21 women every day in the UK—over 8,000 a year. In Australia, the numbers are similarly concerning, with gynaecological cancers being a leading cause of cancer death in women.
While cervical cancer is most common in women aged 30 to 35, womb cancer is more likely to affect women over 50, especially those who have gone through menopause.
That’s why it’s so important for our community to be aware of the risks and symptoms.
What about screening?
Currently, there’s no routine screening for womb cancer. Cervical screening (Pap smears) is offered to women aged 25 to 74 in Australia, but remember: a normal result does not rule out womb cancer. If you have symptoms, don’t wait for your next scheduled test—see your doctor.
What can you do?
- Know your body: If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts.
- Don’t ignore symptoms: Especially abnormal bleeding, pain, or changes in your body.
- Talk to your GP: Even if you think it’s probably nothing, it’s always better to be safe.
- Share this information: Talk to your friends, daughters, sisters, and mothers. The more we know, the more lives we can save.
Let’s keep the conversation going
Have you or someone you know experienced any of these symptoms? Did you find it difficult to get a diagnosis, or were you surprised by what you learned? We’d love to hear your stories, questions, and advice in the comments below. By sharing our experiences, we can help raise awareness and support each other.
Remember: when it comes to cancer, knowledge is power, and early action can make all the difference.
Also read: Australian scientists unveil blood test to spot ovarian cancer early
I noticed vaginal bleeding about ten years ago, ten years past menopause. My doctor referred me to a gynaecologist, who did a d&c which detected abnormal endometrial cells. He referred me to a gynaecological oncologist, where I joined a clinical trial for a conservative treatment for endometrial cancer. I now have a mirena IUD, and 10 years on, the cells remain normal. At the time of diagnosis, they were pre-cancerous.
I advise any woman with abnormal vaginal bleeding to see her doctor as soon as possible.