Endometrial & Uterine Cancer

You’ll find compassionate, comprehensive care for uterine cancer at the Overlake Cancer Center. Cancer occurs when cells in your body grow abnormally. Endometrial cancer is the most frequently occurring type of cancer found in the uterus. It starts in the lining (endometrium) of the uterus.

One in 35 women will likely develop this type of cancer in their lifetime. But, if caught early, a uterine cancer is highly curable.

The most common warning sign for uterine cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding. Prompt recognition of this symptom often allows for early diagnosis and treatment.

In older women, particularly after menopause, any bleeding, spotting or brownish discharge may be a symptom of endometrial cancer. Younger women are also at risk and should report irregular or heavy vaginal bleeding to their physician which should be evaluated by a pelvic exam and an endometrial biopsy. Evaluation of these symptoms may also include a pelvic ultrasound.

Pay attention to symptoms of uterine cancer that include:

• Unusual discharge or bleeding not related to normal menstruation.
• Any bleeding, spotting, or brownish discharge after menopause.
• Difficulty or pain while urinating.
• Pain during sex.
• Pain in the pelvis area.

You are more likely to develop uterine cancer if you:

• Are obese.
• Have diabetes or eat a high-fat diet.
• Have a history of endometrial hyperplasia, a condition that causes the endometrium to thicken.
• Started your period before age 12 or began menopause later than usual.
• Took estrogen replacement therapy for menopause.
• Were unable to become pregnant.

If you are diagnosed with uterine cancer, your treatment may include a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus, cervix and fallopian tubes).

Your doctor may recommend staging. Staging helps to determine the exact extent of your cancer and the best treatment plan for you.

If you have questions or concerns about uterine cancer or would like to make an appointment, please call the Overlake Cancer Center at (425) 635-3400.