Could this be cancer? Know the symptoms of Gynaecological Cancer
September marks Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month and the Gynaecology Oncology Team are sharing some of the key signs and symptoms to look out for, as well as some practical steps you can take to reduce risk.
Gynaecological cancer can come in many forms; Cervical, Ovarian, Uterine / Endometrial, Vulval and Vaginal. The Gynaecology Oncology Team at Cardiff and Vale is urging anyone experiencing unusual symptoms to ask themselves, and their health professional, “could this be cancer?”
Womb Cancer, also referred to as Endometrial Cancer, is the most common gynaecological cancer.
“The main symptom of Womb Cancer to look out for is abnormal bleeding after the menopause. If you notice this, we’d urge you to seek help from your GP as soon you can. Early intervention can make all the difference to the success of your treatment.” advises Lynne, Gynaecology Oncology Specialist Nurse at University Hospital of Wales.
Early intervention is similarly important to the treatment of Ovarian Cancer, but diagnosis often takes place too late and at an advanced stage.
Yogee, Gynaecology Oncology Doctor, said: “symptoms of Ovarian Cancer can include an ongoing bloated or a swollen tummy, feeling full quickly or losing your appetite, pain in your lower tummy or pelvic region and needing to wee more frequently or urgently.”
“If these symptoms are new, they’re frequent and they’re persistent, then this is something you must raise with a healthcare professional.”
Adam, Gynaecology Oncology Doctor said: “If you’re concerned, list your symptoms to your GP and ask them ‘could this be Ovarian Cancer?’ You know your body and you know when something isn’t right, don’t be afraid to speak up.”
Although age and genetics play a large role in the development of gynaecological cancers, there are some practical things you can do to limit risk.
“Obesity is one of the key risk factors associated with Womb Cancer” says Rhian, Gynaecology Oncology Specialist Nurse. “Fat cells produce the hormone Estrogen, which is associated with this type of cancer, so one of the key ways you can reduce your risk is to maintain a healthy weight.”
To find out more about how you can maintain a healthy weight, visit https://keepingmewell.com/.
Its also essential that you attend cervical screening or ‘smear tests’ which test for HPV (human papilloma virus). Sadie Jones, Gynaecology Oncology Surgeon explains: “although not all cervix cancer is caused by HPV, the majority of it is, so it’s important to prioritise your cervical screening appointments. Smear tests are a quick and easy intervention that could save your life and / or hugely benefit your future health.”
Nurse Colposcopist Laura said: “smear test uptake has dropped in recent years, particularly among 30–40-year-olds, when screening is crucial. Please, please prioritise screening on your to-do list!” For more information on Cervical Screening, read our Cervical Screening Awareness Week | Your questions answered.
Another step people can take to reduce risk is to get the HPV vaccination. The vaccine can prevent a range of different cancers (including cervical, vaginal and vulval) and is most effective when offered at pubertal age so is therefore first offered to secondary school pupils.
“The introduction of the HPV vaccination has seen significant reductions in cervix cancer. We’d really urge parents to encourage their children to get this vaccine and to catch up on the vaccine if you’ve missed it.” More details on the HPV vaccine and eligibility can be found here: HPV vaccine - Public Health Wales.