Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer

Endometrial cancer is a cancer of the womb, which is also referred to as a uterine cancer. The uterus is located in the pelvic area and is shaped similar to that of a papaya or a pear. 90% of all uterine cancers are endometrial cancers, and are the third most common amongst women.

The cancer occurs in the cells of the inner lining of the uterus which is called the endometrium. As this lining grows, cancer is formed. Medical professionals do not know the cause of endometrium cancer, but the majority of evidences point to having been exposed to high levels of estrogen.

Endometrial cancer mainly affects women who have gone through menopause, especially those who are 55 years of age, or older.

Some of the risk factors include obesity, a high intake of animal proteins and fats, diabetics, women who have had breast or ovarian cancer, women who have been treated with tamoxifen, women who have never had children, have irregular menstrual cycles, and have high blood pressure.

The good thing about endometrial cancers is that it is highly treatable. Most women are able to detect the symptoms at an early enough stage for treatments to be effective and cure the cancer.

Some of the signs and symptoms associated with Endometrial cancer are:

Bleeding or spotting, beginning at 12 months after menopause. This is usually the first sign and it may not always be the result of cancer, but nevertheless, it should be checked out by a medical professional.
Bleeding in between periods in pre-menopausal women. This also may not be a sign of cancer, but still should be checked out just to be on the safe side.
Any unusual vaginal discharge which is not related to the menstrual cycle may also be a sign of cancer.
Unusual long, heavy or frequent vaginal bleedings after the age of 40.
A thin white, or clear vaginal discharge after menopause.
Bleeding after intercourse.
Pain during intercourse.
Trouble urinating.
Lower abdominal pain.
Pelvic pain might also be a symptom, although this rarely occurs.
Weight loss, loss of appetite, and fatigue are also symptoms which should not be ignored.

If you are at risk for developing endometrial cancer and you are experiencing any of the above symptoms you need to have it checked out by a medical professional. A biopsy will be done to determine whether cancer is present or not. If cancer is present, or suspected, a sample of the endometrium will be removed for further testing.