8 symptoms of gynecologic cancer that women shouldn’t ignore
It is normal for a woman’s body to change over time. But sometimes changes can be cancer symptoms. The key is to know your body well enough that you can notice when something is different and to seek medical care.
The American Cancer Society estimates that nearly 95,000 women are diagnosed with, and approximately 29,000 deaths are linked to, gynecologic cancer each year. Early detection can mean starting treatment earlier and increasing the chances of the cancer going into remission. The best way to detect cancer early is for a woman to recognize the symptoms of cancer and make an appointment with her doctor to discuss the changes.
The problem I often see is that women do not know the symptoms to look out for and do not visit a doctor when they notice the warning signs.
A 2013 study completed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention discovered that most women do not know the signs of gynecological cancer. The study conducted focus group interviews with 132 women ages 40 to 60. Participants were provided a list of symptoms and asked what symptoms would concern them most and what could be the cause.
Women were most concerned about unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge, pain or pressure in the pelvic area and changes to the skin of the vulva. But they only said the first two signs might be cancer symptoms.
Studies like this one showcase the importance of raising awareness of the symptoms of gynecologic cancers. This can lead to earlier detection and improve the chances of survival.
Each type of cancer brings its own symptoms, but there are some overall concerns to be looking out for when it comes to gynecologic cancer.
1. Fatigue as a cancer symptom
Many women live a hectic life and in turn are normally tired. But it is not normal to be extremely tired at all times. Fatigue could be a symptom because the cancer cells use up much of the body’s energy supply.
2. Pain
Pain is often an early symptom of cancers. Ovarian cancer is heavily linked to back and abdominal pain. Pelvis pain or pressure is found in many patients with uterine (endometrial) cancer.
Pain from cancer can also mean that the cancer has metastasized (spread). It is important if you have pain in the same location for more than four weeks to make an appointment to see your doctor.
3. Changes in bathroom habits
What is considered normal bowel and bladder habits are different for each person. If you notice a change from what is normal for you, it is time to mention it to a doctor.
Constipation or diarrhea can indicate a lot of medical concerns, one of which can be as a cancer symptom. It is important to pay attention to your stool and notice if it changes or has blood in it.
Change in urination, especially an increase in the frequency in urination, could be related to bladder cancer or many gynecologic cancers. Also, if you are experiencing pain or blood while urinating, you should track this symptom and let your doctor know about. Blood in your urine is generally the first sign of bladder or kidney cancer, but it’s also a symptom for many gynecologic cancers.
4. Bloating
Women are natural bloaters. But if you have been bloated for multiple weeks in a row, or if your bloating is paired with another cancer symptom, it is time to seek medical help. Constant bloating is most commonly a sign of ovarian cancer.
5. Unusual bleeding or discharge
It is important to tell your doctor if you are bleeding between periods or after sex. Bleeding between your usual monthly cycle can be due to many different reasons, but it can be a symptom of vulvar, ovarian, uterine or cervical cancers.
If you are bleeding after menopause, it is not normal and you should be checked right away.
Along with bleeding, people can also experience unusual vaginal discharge as a symptom of many gynecologic cancers. Everyone’s discharge is unique, so pay attention to when it changes.
6. Difficulty eating or feeling full too quick
If you are feeling full after eating less than normal, you should be checked by your doctor. This can be a sign of ovarian cancer.
7. Unexplained weight loss
Most women dream that their extra pounds would just melt away. But if you have lost 10 or more pounds without changing your exercise habits or diet, it could signal a problem. While the cancer symptom of having difficulty eating could play a role in weight loss, completely different causes related to cancer could be behind weight loss.
Unexplained weight loss happens most often with pancreatic, stomach or lung cancer but can be seen with a range of cancers. This could also be a symptom of an issue with your thyroid.
8. Changes in the vulva
The vulva is the outer surface area of the female genitals. Things to look out for include changes to the color or texture of the skin, such as a rash, sores or warts. It is also important to pay attention to itching, burning or pain that does not go away on the vulva.
The list above includes the most common signs and symptoms seen with gynecologic cancers. But there are many others not listed here. If you notice changes to your body, say something to your doctor.
Symptoms may be caused by something other than gynecologic cancer, but the only way to know for sure is to track your symptoms and see a doctor. A cancer symptom should never be overlooked or ignored, especially if it has lasted a long time or is getting worse.
No matter the cause of your symptom, whether it is due to cancer or something else, your doctor will be able to help you figure out the reason for it and treatment options, if needed. If your symptoms are a sign of cancer, bringing them to your doctor’s attention will give you the chance to be treated early, when treatment is most effective.