Five gynaecological cancers that every woman should be aware of

Gynaecological cancer, which originates in a woman’s reproductive system, requires early detection for accurate and timely treatment. Understanding symptoms is key to navigate the condition.

It affects one of the following organs – ovaries, uterus, cervix, vulva or vagina. In a conversation with mid-day.com, Dr Surabhi Siddhartha, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital, Kharghar, shares five types of gynaecological cancer that every woman should be aware of.

Five types of gynaecological cancer

Ovarian cancer

Also known as a “silent killer”, ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries in women. Dr Siddhartha informs, “It usually goes undetected until it spreads to other parts like the pelvis and abdomen.”

Symptoms include:

• Bloating
• Pain in the pelvic area
• Inability to eat or swallow
• Frequent urge to pee

Uterine cancer

Also called endometrial cancer, uterine cancer starts in the lining of the uterus. Dr Siddhartha suggests to look out for the following symptoms:

• Abnormal bleeding in the vagina particularly after menopause
• Vaginal discharge
• Difficulty having bowel movements
• Loss of appetite
• Sudden weight loss
• Changes in your menstrual cycles.

“People with PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome), obesity, certain age groups, and family history are at higher risk of being detected with this particular cancer,” she further informs.

Cervical cancer

This cancer starts in the cervix. Dr Siddhartha explains, “Cervical cancer is often linked with HPV (human papillomavirus) infection in women. Detecting cervical cancer at an early stage can be difficult as most of the women do not experience visible symptoms. This is why it becomes crucial to go for routine pap smear tests for early diagnosis and timely intervention.”

As cervical cancer progresses, one may start to notice the following symptoms:

• Vaginal bleeding
• Extreme pelvic pain
• Unusual discharge

“Being vaccinated against HPV infection can help reduce the risk of cervical cancer,” the doctor adds.

Vulvar cancer

This cancer tends to affect the external genitalia in women, known as the vulva. Some common symptoms include:

• Persistent itching
• Pain
• Significant changes in the skin around that area
• Lumps and sores.

“Dealing with these symptoms can be overwhelming and frustrating. Many tend to ignore these symptoms as minor inconveniences or infections that may get better with time. This can delay the diagnosis,” cautions Dr Siddhartha.

Also read: ‘I was always exhausted’: Things about menopause that no one prepares you for

Vaginal cancer

A rare type of cancer in women, vaginal cancer develops in the vaginal walls. “Recognising its symptoms becomes essential to minimise the damage caused,” says Dr Siddhartha, sharing the following symptoms:

• Lump in the vagina
• Spotting or bleeding after intercourse
• Vaginal bleeding
• Unusual discharge
• Difficulty in urinating
• Visible swelling in the legs.

Various risk factors can increase one’s likelihood of developing this particular type of gynecological cancer. “The risk factors may include people of a certain age, those who were previously diagnosed with cervical cancer, significant exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES), weakened immune systems and smoking,” she concludes.

Regularly visiting your gynaecologist can help detect these cancers on time, facilitating proper treatment.

Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified medical expert for personalised guidance. 

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