Endometrial Cancer Symptoms
Endometrial Cancer Symptoms
Endometrial cancer begins in the lining of the uterus, causing cells in this tissue to grow and multiply too fast. This forms a tumor or abnormal growth.
These changes often cause the first signs and symptoms of endometrial cancer. "Signs" are things that can be measured by tests, like a thickened uterine lining found on ultrasound. "Symptoms" are things you feel in your body, like abnormal bleeding or pelvic pain.
The most important symptom of endometrial cancer is abnormal uterine bleeding. Because endometrial cancer is most common after menopause, any vaginal bleeding in a postmenopausal woman should be evaluated promptly.
Remember: Many of these symptoms have causes other than cancer. What is important is that any postmenopausal bleeding, or any unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge in a woman of any age, should be evaluated by a doctor without delay.
THE BASICS: The most common symptom of endometrial cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding. In postmenopausal women, any vaginal bleeding, even light spotting, should be evaluated. In premenopausal women, symptoms may include heavy, prolonged, or irregular periods, or bleeding between periods. Other symptoms can include unusual vaginal discharge, pelvic pain or pressure, pain during urination or intercourse, and an enlarged uterus.
What are the signs and symptoms of endometrial cancer?
Abnormal vaginal bleeding
Any vaginal bleeding after menopause, even light spotting, should be evaluated immediately
Unusually heavy menstrual periods, periods lasting longer than usual, or bleeding between periods in premenopausal women
Bleeding after intercourse
Vaginal discharge
An abnormal vaginal discharge that is watery, pink, or brown, even without visible blood
A discharge that has an unusual odor
Pelvic symptoms
Pelvic pain, pressure, or a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen
Pain during intercourse
Pain during urination
Symptoms that may indicate spread
Unexplained weight loss
Persistent fatigue
Bloating or changes in bowel or bladder habits
Back or leg pain, which may suggest spread to lymph nodes
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, or notice any changes to your health that concern you, talk to your doctor right away. Endometrial cancer is often diagnosed at an early stage because abnormal bleeding prompts women to seek medical care. Finding endometrial cancer earlier gives you the best chance of successful treatment.