Cancer Of The Uterus
Overview
Cancer of the uterus (also called endometrial cancer) is a disease in which abnormal cells grow out of control in the lining of the uterus, the pear-shaped organ in the lower belly where a baby grows during pregnancy. Most cancers of the uterus start in the inner lining, called the endometrium.
Key facts
- It is the most common cancer of the female reproductive organs in many countries.
- It usually affects people who have gone through menopause (when monthly periods stop).
- The most common warning sign is unusual vaginal bleeding.
- When found early, it is often treatable with good results.
It is fairly common. In the UK, it is the 4th most common cancer in women, with around 9,000 new cases each year. Rates have been rising, partly because of higher rates of obesity.
It mainly affects people who have a uterus and are over 50, especially after menopause. About 9 out of 10 cases happen in people over 50. However, it can also occur in younger people who are still having periods.
Symptoms
- Heavy vaginal bleeding that soaks through a pad every hour for more than 2 hours
- Fainting, dizziness, or severe pain in the lower belly
- ⚠Any bleeding after menopause
- ⚠Bleeding between periods that is new or unusual for you
- ⚠A sudden large gush of blood or clot-like tissue
Common symptoms
- Vaginal bleeding after menopause
- Periods that become much heavier or last longer
- Bleeding between periods
- Pelvic pain or discomfort
- Pain during sex
- A watery, pink or white discharge that lasts for a while
Causes
Main causes
- A high level of the hormone estrogen, without enough progesterone, can cause the lining of the uterus to grow too much and become cancerous
- Lifetime exposure to estrogen is longer if a woman started periods early, went through menopause late, or never had children
- Genetic conditions such as Lynch syndrome increase the risk
Risk factors
- Obesity (being very overweight)
- Age over 50
- Diabetes or high blood pressure
- Taking oestrogen-only hormone replacement therapy (HRT) without progesterone
- Having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- A family history of womb, bowel or ovarian cancer
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- See a GP within a few days if you have bleeding after menopause, no matter how light
- See a GP if you have heavy bleeding or bleeding between periods that is new
Book a routine appointment if:
- Mention any pelvic pain, discharge or bloating that does not go away after 2-3 weeks
- If you notice any change in your normal pattern of periods, mention it at your next check-up
Diagnosis
Doctors usually start by asking about your symptoms and doing a pelvic exam. Then they may use an ultrasound scan to look at the womb. If something looks abnormal, they take a small sample of the lining (a biopsy) to check for cancer cells.
Tests that may be done
- Pelvic examination (internal examination)
- Transvaginal ultrasound scan – a small probe inside the vagina to look at the thickness of the womb lining
- Endometrial biopsy (a small tube is passed through the cervix to remove a sample of lining)
- Hysteroscopy – a camera is used to look inside the womb and take a biopsy
- If cancer is confirmed, more scans (CT or MRI) may be done to see if it has spread
What to expect at your appointment
You will be referred to a specialist team, usually a gynaecologist. You may have several tests, and it may take a few weeks to get results. The team will explain everything and give you support during this time.
Treatment
Treatment depends on how far the cancer has grown, its type, and your general health. The main treatment is surgery to remove the uterus. You may also have radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy. Your doctors will plan a treatment just for you and explain the benefits and risks.
Self-care at home
- Following your treatment, rest when you need to and gradually build up your activity
- Take care of the surgical wound as your nurse shows you
- Keep a diary of any side effects so you can tell your care team
- Talk to your team about managing pain, tiredness or emotional ups and downs
Medical treatments
Medical treatments may include surgery to remove the uterus and sometimes the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Radiotherapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy uses medicines to destroy cancer cells throughout the body. Hormone therapy changes the levels of hormones to slow the growth of the cancer. Your team will discuss the options that are best for you.
When is surgery considered?
Many people with early-stage cancer are treated with surgery to remove the uterus (hysterectomy). Sometimes the lymph nodes in the pelvis are also removed to check for any spread. Recovery usually takes several weeks, and you will be given advice on wound care and when to return to activities.
Living with this condition
After treatment, you may feel tired and need to rest. It is helpful to accept help from family and friends. Regular gentle walks can help your energy levels. You will have regular follow-up appointments to check how you are doing.
Lifestyle tips
- Try to keep a healthy weight
- Stay active with regular exercise you enjoy
- Talk to a counsellor or support group if you feel anxious or low
- Keep your follow-up appointments
Diet and exercise
Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables and whole grains helps your body recover. Try to stay active – even a short daily walk can improve your mood and energy. Your doctor or a dietitian can give you tailored advice.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
A cancer diagnosis can cause worry, sadness or fear. These feelings are normal. It can help to talk about them with a partner, friend or a professional. Support groups let you connect with others who have had the same experience. If you feel overwhelmed, please get in touch with your care team.
Prevention
There is no sure way to prevent cancer of the uterus, but you can lower your risk. Keeping a healthy weight and staying physically active are the most important things. If you use hormone replacement therapy, ask your doctor about the risks.
Vaccines
No vaccine specifically prevents uterine cancer.
Screening programmes
There is no national routine screening test for this cancer. A cervical screening test (smear test) checks for cervical cancer, not uterine cancer. It is still important to attend your smear tests if invited.
Complications
If left untreated
- The cancer can grow deeper into the muscle of the womb
- It may spread to nearby organs such as the bladder, rectum or lymph nodes
- If it spreads to more distant organs such as the lungs or liver, it is harder to treat
Long-term outlook
The outlook is often very good, especially when the cancer is found early. Most people with early-stage womb cancer are completely cured with surgery. Even if the cancer has spread, there are treatments that can keep it under control for a long time. Your medical team will be honest with you about what to expect and will support you through every step.
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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.
Sources and guidance
Sources used for this article include the references listed below.
Last updated: October 19, 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.
Guidance may differ by country or region. Confirm local recommendations with a qualified healthcare provider.