What is Endometrial Cancer?

Endometrial cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lining of the uterus (the endometrium). It is the most common cancer of the female reproductive organs. It usually occurs in postmenopausal women, but it can also affect women who are still menstruating.

 

Symptoms

Common symptoms of endometrial cancer include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding (e.g., bleeding between periods, heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, or bleeding after menopause)

• Pelvic pain or discomfort

• Unusual vaginal discharge (not related to menstruation)

• Pain during intercourse

• Difficulty urinating or bowel changes

 

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing endometrial cancer, including:

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• Age: Most cases occur in women over 50.

• Obesity: Excess body fat increases estrogen levels, which can stimulate the growth of endometrial cells.

• Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormone replacement therapy.

• Family History: A family history of endometrial, ovarian, or breast cancer can increase risk.

• Menstrual History: Early onset of menstruation and late onset of menopause.

• Diabetes: Women with diabetes may have an increased risk.

• History of Endometrial Hyperplasia: Pre-cancerous changes in the endometrium.

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Diagnosis

To diagnose endometrial cancer, your gynaecologist may perform:

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• Pelvic Examination: To check for abnormalities in the uterus and surrounding structures.

• Ultrasound: An imaging test to examine the uterus and endometrial lining.

• Endometrial Biopsy: A sample of the endometrial tissue is taken and examined for cancer cells.

• Hysteroscopy: A procedure using a thin, flexible tube with a camera to view the inside of the uterus and take a biopsy.

• D&C (Dilation and Curettage): A procedure to remove a sample of tissue from the uterus for examination.

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Treatment Options

Treatment for endometrial cancer depends on the stage and grade of the cancer and may include:

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• Surgery: The primary treatment, often involving a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) and possibly removal of nearby lymph nodes.

• Radiation Therapy: To kill cancer cells or shrink tumors, usually used after surgery or if surgery is not an option.

• Chemotherapy: Use of drugs to kill cancer cells, usually recommended for more advanced stages or if cancer has spread.

• Hormone Therapy: Medication to reduce estrogen levels and slow the growth of cancer cells, used for certain types of endometrial cancer.

• Targeted Therapy: Drugs that specifically target cancer cells, often used for advanced or recurrent cases.

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Living with Endometrial Cancer​

Managing endometrial cancer involves a combination of treatments and support. Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential to monitor for any recurrence and manage any side effects of treatment.

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When to See a Doctor

Consult your gynaecologist if you experience symptoms that could indicate endometrial cancer, particularly if you have risk factors. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.

 

For more information, please contact our office.

What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It usually develops slowly over time, starting with precancerous changes in the cells lining the cervix. If left untreated, these changes can progress to cancer.

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Symptoms

In the early stages, cervical cancer may not cause any symptoms. As it progresses, symptoms may include:

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• Abnormal vaginal bleeding (e.g., between periods, after sex, or after menopause)

• Unusual vaginal discharge (which may be watery, pink, or tinged with blood)

• Pelvic pain or discomfort

• Pain during sexual intercourse

• Painful urination or blood in the urine

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Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing cervical cancer, including:

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• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection: HPV is a virus transmitted through sexual contact. Certain strains of HPV are linked to cervical cancer.

• Smoking: Tobacco use is associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer.

• Weakened Immune System: Conditions or treatments that weaken the immune system can increase the risk.

• Multiple Sexual Partners: Having multiple sexual partners increases the risk of HPV infection.

• Early Sexual Activity: Starting sexual activity at a young age can increase the risk of HPV infection.

• Family History: A family history of cervical cancer or other cancers may increase risk.

• Not Having Regular Pap Smears: Pap smears (or Pap tests) can detect precancerous changes in the cervix, allowing for early intervention.

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Prevention and Screening

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• HPV Vaccination: The HPV vaccine can protect against the types of HPV that most commonly cause cervical cancer.

• Regular Pap Smears: A Pap smear is a test that checks for abnormal cells in the cervix. It is recommended for women starting at age 21 or within 3 years of becoming sexually active. Regular screenings can help detect any abnormal changes early.

• HPV Testing: HPV testing can be done alongside a Pap smear to identify the presence of high-risk HPV strains.

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Diagnosis

If abnormal results are found during screening, further diagnostic tests may include:

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• Colposcopy: An examination of the cervix using a special magnifying device to look for abnormal cells.

• Biopsy: A small sample of cervical tissue is taken for examination under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer.

• Imaging Tests: Such as CT scans or MRIs, to determine if the cancer has spread.

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Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the stage of the cancer and may include:

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• Surgery: Options include removing the cervix (conization), the uterus (hysterectomy), or other affected areas.

• Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays are used to kill cancer cells.

• Chemotherapy: Use of drugs to kill or control cancer cells.

• Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific cancer cells based on genetic characteristics.

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Living with Cervical Cancer

Ongoing care and support are essential for managing cervical cancer. This may involve regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider, managing side effects of treatment, and seeking support from counsellors or support groups.

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When to See a Doctor

Consult your gynaecologist if you experience any symptoms mentioned or if you have concerns about your risk factors. Regular screenings and early intervention are key to better outcomes.

 

For more information, please contact our office.

What is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, the female reproductive organs that produce eggs. It can also involve the fallopian tubes and the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity). Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed at a later stage because early symptoms can be vague or easily mistaken for other conditions.

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Symptoms

Common symptoms of ovarian cancer may include:

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• Abdominal bloating or swelling

• Pelvic pain or discomfort

• Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly

• Frequent or urgent need to urinate

• Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation

• Unexplained weight loss or gain

• Fatigue

• Unusual vaginal discharge

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Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing ovarian cancer, including:

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• Age: Most cases occur in women over the age of 50, especially after menopause.

• Family History: A family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer may increase risk due to genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2.

• Genetic Mutations: Inherited genetic mutations, such as BRCA1, BRCA2, or Lynch syndrome, can increase risk.

• Personal History: Women who have had breast cancer or endometrial cancer may be at higher risk.

• Hormone Replacement Therapy: Long-term use of hormone replacement therapy may be associated with increased risk.

• Reproductive History: Women who have never been pregnant or who have had difficulty conceiving may have a higher risk.

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Diagnosis

To diagnose ovarian cancer, your gynaecologist may perform:

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• Pelvic Examination: To check for abnormalities in the ovaries and surrounding structures.

• Ultrasound: An imaging test to view the ovaries and detect any abnormal masses.

• CT Scan or MRI: Additional imaging tests to determine the extent of the disease.

• Blood Tests: Including CA-125, a tumor marker that can be elevated in ovarian cancer (though not specific to it).

• Biopsy: A procedure where a sample of ovarian tissue is taken for examination. In many cases, surgery is required to confirm the diagnosis.

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Treatment Options

Treatment for ovarian cancer depends on the stage and grade of the cancer and may include:

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• Surgery: The primary treatment, often involving a total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (TAH-BSO), where the uterus, cervix, and both ovaries and fallopian tubes are removed.

• Chemotherapy: Use of drugs to kill cancer cells, often used after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells or if surgery is not feasible.

• Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific molecules involved in cancer growth, used in certain cases based on genetic mutations.

• Hormone Therapy: Used to treat certain types of ovarian cancer that are hormone-sensitive.

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Living with Ovarian Cancer

Managing ovarian cancer involves a combination of treatments and ongoing care. Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential to monitor for any recurrence and manage any side effects of treatment. Support from a multidisciplinary team, including oncologists, nurses, and counsellors, can be beneficial.

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When to See a Doctor

Consult your gynaecologist if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned, especially if they are persistent or worsening. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for better outcomes.

 

For more information, please contact our office.