Uterine Cancer Symptoms: An Introduction
Most cases of uterine cancer occur in the lining (endometrium) of the uterus. This article uses the term "uterine cancer" to refer to this type of cancer, also known as endometrial cancer. This article does not discuss a rare type of uterine cancer that can occur in the muscles or other tissues that support the uterus. Click Uterine Sarcoma for more information on this topic.
Uterine cancer usually develops over time. The disease begins growing in the endometrium, and as the cancer cells continue to grow, they spread more deeply into the endometrium and to surrounding areas. When uterine cancer spreads (metastasizes) outside the uterus, cancer cells are often found in nearby lymph nodes, nerves, or blood vessels. If the cancer has reached these lymph nodes, cancer cells may have spread to other lymph nodes and other organs, such as the lungs, liver, and bones. It is important to understand the progression of uterine cancer in order to understand uterine cancer symptoms, staging, and treatment.
Common Uterine Cancer Symptoms
Uterine cancer symptoms usually occur after
menopause. However, symptoms may also occur around the same time that menopause begins.
Common uterine cancer symptoms may include:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge
- Difficult or painful urination
- Pain during intercourse
- Pain in the pelvic area.
Abnormal vaginal bleeding is the most common symptom of uterine cancer. Bleeding may start as a watery, blood-streaked flow that gradually contains more blood. Women should not assume that abnormal vaginal bleeding is part of menopause.
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