Gynae Cancer

What Are Gynaecological Cancers?
Gynaecological cancers start in the female reproductive organs. The five main types are cervical, ovarian, uterine (endometrial), vaginal and vulval cancer. Though each affects a different area, they share a common cause – the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the reproductive tract. Early detection is key, but some types are harder to catch than others.
 

Types of Gynaecological Cancer

• Cervical Cancer: Starts in the cervix – the lower part of the womb. Most cases are caused by HPV. Symptoms may include abnormal bleeding (especially after sex) or unusual discharge. Regular cervical screening and HPV vaccination can prevent or detect it early.
   

• Ovarian Cancer: Often diagnosed late due to vague symptoms like bloating, pelvic pain, and feeling full quickly. Family history and BRCA mutations increase risk. It’s one of the deadliest gynae cancers, but early detection improves survival.
   

• Uterine (Endometrial) Cancer: The most common gynaecological cancer, especially in postmenopausal women. Often presents with abnormal bleeding. Obesity, high oestrogen levels and hormonal conditions increase risk. Early symptoms usually lead to early diagnosis.
   

• Vaginal Cancer: A rare cancer affecting the vaginal canal, mostly in women over 60. Often linked to HPV. May cause bleeding after sex or menopause, or unusual discharge. No routine screening – awareness of symptoms is key for early detection.
   

• Vulvar Cancer: Develops in the external genital area. Symptoms include itching, pain, skin changes or sores that don’t heal. More common with age. Some cases are linked to HPV. Early vulval cancer can often be cured with surgery.
   

Symptoms to Watch For

• Unusual vaginal bleeding – between periods, after sex or after menopause

• Persistent bloating, tummy pain or feeling full quickly (ovarian cancer)

• Changes in bathroom habits – needing to wee more often or constipation

• Pain during sex or pelvic discomfort

• Vulval skin changes – itching, burning, lumps or colour changes

If something doesn’t feel right – especially if it lasts longer than a few weeks – get it checked.

Risk Factors

• HPV – A major cause of cervical, vaginal and vulval cancers

• Family history – BRCA1/2 gene mutations raise ovarian and breast cancer risk

• Oestrogen exposure – Early periods, late menopause, no pregnancies, or HRT without progesterone can raise womb cancer risk

• Age – Most gynae cancers are more common in postmenopausal women

• Smoking – Increases the risk of several gynaecological cancers