16409 Uterine Cancer
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Uterine cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the uterus (womb), the hollow, pear-shaped organ in the female pelvis where a baby grows during pregnancy. The most common type begins in the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium, so doctors often call it endometrial cancer.
Key facts
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding is the most common early warning sign of uterine cancer.
- Uterine cancer is most often found when it is still small and treatable.
- It is different from cervical cancer and ovarian cancer, although they are all gynecological cancers.
Yes. Uterine cancer is one of the most common cancers of the female reproductive system. It mainly affects people after menopause, and most cases are diagnosed between the ages of 50 and 70.
It affects anyone who has a uterus, including cisgender women, transgender men, and non-binary people assigned female at birth. It is much more common after menopause and is rare before age 40. Certain health conditions, such as obesity and diabetes, can increase the risk.
Symptoms
- Heavy vaginal bleeding with large clots — for example, soaking through more than one pad every hour
- Heavy bleeding with dizziness, fainting, rapid breathing, or cold, clammy skin
- Sudden, severe lower belly or pelvic pain that does not go away
- Sudden chest pain or difficulty breathing, which can be a sign of a blood clot
- ⚠New heavy vaginal bleeding or bleeding after menopause
- ⚠Vaginal bleeding that keeps coming back or gets heavier
- ⚠Pelvic pain with a fever or chills
- ⚠Feeling very weak or short of breath, which can be a sign of anemia from blood loss
Common symptoms
- Vaginal bleeding after menopause
- Bleeding between periods
- Periods that are heavier, longer, or more frequent than usual
- Watery or blood-stained vaginal discharge
- Pain or pressure in the pelvis
- Pain during sex
Causes
Main causes
- Uterine cancer begins when cells in the lining of the uterus grow out of control and form a tumor.
- The exact cause is not always known, but many cases are linked to high levels of estrogen without enough progesterone to balance it.
- Some uterine cancers are linked to inherited gene changes, such as Lynch syndrome.
Risk factors
- Age over 50, especially after menopause
- Obesity or being overweight
- Diabetes or high blood pressure
- Irregular periods, never having been pregnant, or starting periods early
- Taking estrogen-only hormone replacement therapy
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or other conditions that change hormone levels
- Family history of uterine, bowel, or ovarian cancer
- Endometrial hyperplasia — an overgrowth of cells in the lining of the uterus
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- Any vaginal bleeding after menopause
- Bleeding between periods or unusually heavy periods
- Watery or blood-stained vaginal discharge that lasts more than a few weeks
Book a routine appointment if:
- Pelvic pain, pressure, or bloating that does not go away
- A family history of uterine or bowel cancer — ask your provider about checking for inherited risk
Diagnosis
A health care provider will ask about your symptoms and health history, do a gentle pelvic examination, and may order tests. The most reliable way to diagnose uterine cancer is a biopsy, which means taking a small sample of tissue from the lining of the uterus to look at under a microscope.
Tests that may be done
- Pelvic ultrasound — a scan using sound waves to check the thickness and appearance of the lining of the uterus
- Hysteroscopy — a thin, flexible telescope passed through the cervix into the uterus so the doctor can see the inside
- Endometrial biopsy — a small piece of tissue is taken from the lining of the uterus, often in the clinic without needing surgery
- Imaging scans such as CT or MRI — used to see whether cancer has spread
What to expect at your appointment
You may feel mild cramping or discomfort during a biopsy, but it usually takes only a few minutes. If cancer is found, your care team will arrange further tests and a meeting to discuss your options. You are at the center of every decision, and you can bring a friend or family member to help you take notes.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer, your general health, and your preferences. Most people with early uterine cancer can be treated successfully, and many are cured. The main goal is to remove the cancer and lower the chance of it coming back.
Self-care at home
- Follow your treatment plan and attend all appointments
- Write down your questions before visits and bring someone you trust
- Tell your care team about any side effects you experience — many can be managed
- Rest when you need to, and accept help from family and friends
Medical treatments
Treatment approaches include surgery to remove the uterus, radiotherapy (high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells), chemotherapy (medicines that kill cancer cells), hormone therapy, and newer targeted therapies that focus on specific changes in cancer cells. Your doctor will explain which options are right for you and what each one involves. No single treatment is right for everyone.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is the most common first treatment for early-stage uterine cancer. It usually involves a hysterectomy, which is removal of the uterus, and often removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries. The surgeon may also remove nearby lymph nodes to check whether the cancer has spread.
Living with this condition
After treatment, you will have regular follow-up appointments and checks. Many people feel tired for a while, but energy often returns gradually. You can return to daily activities as soon as you feel able. Give yourself time to heal, both physically and emotionally, and do not push yourself too hard too soon.
Lifestyle tips
- Try to maintain a healthy weight
- Stay active with gentle activities like walking, if your care team agrees
- Limit alcohol and avoid smoking
- Ask about pelvic floor exercises or physiotherapy if bladder or bowel changes bother you
Diet and exercise
A balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and healthy protein can help your body recover and keep up your strength. Gentle exercise, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, can improve your mood, energy, and sleep. Always check with your care team before starting anything new.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
A cancer diagnosis can bring fear, worry, sadness, and stress. These feelings are normal and may come and go for months or even years. It is important to talk about how you feel — with your care team, family, friends, or a counselor. You do not have to face this alone.
Prevention
There is no guaranteed way to prevent uterine cancer, but you can lower your risk by maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, and managing conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. If you have any unusual bleeding, seeing a doctor promptly gives the best chance of finding cancer earlier, when it is easier to treat.
Vaccines
There is no vaccine that prevents uterine cancer. However, the HPV vaccine protects against cervical cancer, which is a different condition.
Screening programmes
There is no standard screening test for uterine cancer in people without symptoms. Testing is done when symptoms appear, or if someone has a known inherited condition that greatly increases their risk.
Complications
If left untreated
- The cancer can grow deeper into the muscle of the uterus and spread to nearby lymph nodes, ovaries, or other organs
- Heavy bleeding can cause anemia, leading to tiredness, weakness, and shortness of breath
- Spread of cancer can cause pain, weight loss, and serious problems in organs such as the bladder, bowel, liver, or lungs
Long-term outlook
Many uterine cancers are found early because they cause bleeding that makes people go to their doctor. When caught early, the outlook is often very good, and many people are cured with surgery alone. Even if the cancer is more advanced, treatment can control it for years. Your care team will give you honest information about your individual situation and help you plan for the future with hope.
Find support
International organisations
Local organisations
- Macmillan Cancer Support ↗ · United Kingdom
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 31, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.