Gynecological cancer is a term used to describe cancers that affect the reproductive organs of women. These cancers can include ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, uterine cancer, vaginal cancer, and vulvar cancer.
While these cancers can be deadly, early detection can go a long way in improving the chances of successful treatment.
It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of gynecological cancers so that you can get prompt medical attention if you notice any of them. Here are some of the warning signs to watch out for:.
Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is known as the “silent killer” because it often goes unnoticed until it has progressed to an advanced stage. Here are some of the signs and symptoms to watch out for:.
Bloating
If you experience persistent bloating that doesn’t go away after a few days, it could be a sign of ovarian cancer. Pay attention to any changes in your abdomen, especially if you notice that your clothes are fitting tighter than usual.
Abdominal Pain
Ovarian cancer can cause pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis. This pain may be mild at first but can become more severe as the cancer grows.
Frequent Urination
Another sign of ovarian cancer is the need to urinate more often than usual. This is because the cancer can put pressure on the bladder.
Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can be detected early with a pap smear. Here are some of the signs and symptoms to watch out for:.
Irregular Bleeding
If you experience bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause, it could be a sign of cervical cancer. Make sure to get any unusual bleeding checked out by your doctor.
Abnormal Discharge
If you notice any unusual discharge that is different from your normal discharge, it could be a sign of cervical cancer. This discharge may be watery, bloody, or foul-smelling.
Pelvic Pain
Cervical cancer can cause pain in the lower back or pelvis. This pain may be mild at first but can become more severe as the cancer grows.
Uterine Cancer
Uterine cancer is the most common gynecological cancer and can be detected early with regular pelvic exams. Here are some of the signs and symptoms to watch out for:.
Abnormal Bleeding
If you experience bleeding between periods or after menopause, it could be a sign of uterine cancer. Make sure to get any unusual bleeding checked out by your doctor.
Pelvic Pain
Uterine cancer can cause pain in the lower back or pelvis. This pain may be mild at first but can become more severe as the cancer grows.
Weight Loss
If you experience unexplained weight loss, it could be a sign of uterine cancer. This is because the cancer can cause a loss of appetite and changes in metabolism.
Vaginal Cancer
Vaginal cancer is rare but can be deadly if not caught early. Here are some of the signs and symptoms to watch out for:.
Abnormal Bleeding
If you experience bleeding after menopause or after sex, it could be a sign of vaginal cancer. Make sure to get any unusual bleeding checked out by your doctor.
Pelvic Pain
Vaginal cancer can cause pain in the lower back or pelvis. This pain may be mild at first but can become more severe as the cancer grows.
Vulvar Cancer
Vulvar cancer is rare but can be deadly if not caught early. Here are some of the signs and symptoms to watch out for:.
Itching or Burning
If you experience persistent itching or burning in the vulva area, it could be a sign of vulvar cancer. Make sure to get any unusual itching or burning checked out by your doctor.
Lumps or Sores
If you notice any lumps or sores on the vulva that do not heal, it could be a sign of vulvar cancer. Make sure to get any unusual lumps or sores checked out by your doctor.
Painful Urination
Vulvar cancer can cause pain or discomfort during urination. This is because the cancer can put pressure on the urethra.