Gynaecological Cancer: 8 symptoms you should never ignore

When we talk about gynaecological cancer, we're talking about ovarian, cervical, uterine (womb), vaginal and vulvar cancers. Cervical cancer is the 14th most common cancer for women, but uterine cancer is the most common nationally.

Unfortunately, there is a still somewhat of a stigma around self-checks for women. For many of us, especially those over 50, we've not been encouraged to regularly check our vulva as often as our breasts - and knowing what your 'normal' looks like is an important step in understanding when something is different and needs to be looked at further.

Let's take a look at the 8 most common symptoms of gynaecological cancer that you should look out for. Remember that if you have any of these symptoms, it's important to be seen for a check up - but that doesn't mean you have cancer as these symptoms can be related to other gynaecological issues too.

1. Abnormal Bleeding or Discharge

Experiencing any unexpected bleeding, especially between periods, after intimacy, or post-menopause, is a sign that you should chat with your GP. Another thing to be mindful of is an unusual increase in vaginal discharge, particularly if it's tinged with blood. When discussing with your GP, it's helpful to note down the dates, frequency, and any associated pain or discomfort you felt.

2. Persistent Pelvic or Abdominal Pain

A constant ache or discomfort in your pelvic or abdominal area that doesn't seem to be linked to your menstrual cycle should be something to keep an eye on. It's essential to differentiate between typical period cramps and a persistent pain, so you can advocate for yourself during your appointment.

3. Changes in Your Loo Habits

If you've started needing the loo more often than usual, or you're experiencing pain when you pee, it's worth seeking a check up as changes in your bladder strength can be related to all sorts of things such as overactive bladder and incontinence, but also this can be a key symptom of gynaecological cancer.

Similarly, if you've noticed constipation or other changes in bowel movements that aren't related to diet or lifestyle shifts, or any blood in your stool or pee, it's time to see your GP. Remember, it's all about spotting changes in what's 'normal' for you. Have a chat with your GP about these shifts in habits, providing as much detail as possible.

4. Itching or Burning Sensation

Any prolonged itching, burning, or soreness around the vulva isn't something to ignore as these could be symptoms of vulval cancer. If over-the-counter remedies aren't helping or if the condition persists, get in touch with your GP to discuss your symptoms.

5. A Lump or Swelling

While many lumps and bumps are often harmless (like cysts), any new lump or swelling in the vulva or inner vagina should be reported. Even if it's painless, it's a good idea to get it checked out and if necessary, a biopsy can be taken for further examination.

6. Unexplained Weight Loss

If you aren't intending to lose weight, or haven't particularly changed your diet or movement recently, sudden and unexplained weight loss can be a symptom of various cancers, including gynaecological cancers.

7. Pain or Discomfort During Intimacy

Experiencing pain during or after sex isn't something you should dismiss as just a "one-off" or just dismiss as something related to sex. It could be indicative of deeper issues. Often referred to as Dyspareunia, painful sexual intercourse can be felt externally on the vulva or internally in the vagina, uterus or pelvis. Factors like underlying medical conditions or infections can cause painful sex but sometimes, it's also an indicator of gynaecological cancer so don't hesitate to get it checked out.

8. Persistent Bloating

We all have those days when we feel a bit 'puffed up'. But if you're experiencing persistent bloating that doesn't seem to go away with dietary changes or over-the-counter remedies, it's time to see your GP as bloating can be connected to ovarian cancer as an early symptom.

Feeling worried that you have a symptom? Remember the risk is low.

We should be clear that even if you have one, or more of these symptoms, it doesn't necessarily mean that you have cancer. But the important thing to remember is that even when the risk may be low, treating cancer early gives us a better chance of beating it and living our lives to the full. Your GP is always happy to discuss any worries that you have and will be empathetic to how self conscious you maybe during examinations.

And finally - don't miss your smear test!

Jude’s clinically proven supplements give you better bladder and pelvic floor control, helping you sleep through the night and regain the freedom to live life on your own terms. With just one capsule morning and night, you'll have relief from need-to-go urgency in just 12 weeks.