Symptoms of Gynecologic Cancers in Women

During Gynecological Cancer Awareness month, Dr. Eugene Toy is reminding women that neglecting their health can lead to further problems down the road. “Paying attention to your body and knowing what’s normal for you can help prevent gynecologic cancers like ovarian, uterine, vulvar, vaginal, and cervical cancer,” said oncologist and gynecologist Eugene Toy, MD. There are many things women can do to help prevent the most common types of gynecological cancers, like knowing the signs and symptoms, scheduling regular checkups with their provider, and speaking up when something just doesn’t feel right.

“For example, abdominal complaints might be indicative of digestive problems, but could also signal serious problems such as a gynecological cancer,” said Dr. Toy.

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Symptoms of Gynecologic Cancers

The five main types of gynecologic cancers are ovarian, uterine, vulvar, vaginal, and cervical cancer. They each have signs and symptoms women can look out for.

Uterine Cancer

• Postmenopausal bleeding
• Irregular bleeding between menstrual cycles
• Heavier and/or longer menstrual bleeding than normal
• Pelvic pain

Ovarian Cancer

• Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly
• Gas, indigestion, bloating and nausea
• Frequent urination

Vulvar Cancer

• Constant itching and/or burning of the vulva
• Change in skin color of the vulva or skin irritation, such as rash, sores, warts

Vaginal Cancer

• Postmenopausal bleeding
• Pain or bleeding during intercourse
• Pelvic pain and constipation
• Vaginal mass

Cervical Cancer

• Vaginal bleeding not related to your menstrual period
• Postmenopausal bleeding
• Pain or bleeding during intercourse
• Significant water or foul-smelling discharge

Prevention

Rochester Regional Health screens patients for gynecological cancers. Dr. Toy recommends that women see their gynecologist or primary care provider for a pelvic exam annually, and discuss any changes in their pelvic health or address any abdominal complaints.

“If someone is experience irritable bowel syndrome, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, pelvic pain or pressure, or any other signs and symptoms, they should contact their healthcare provider for further examination.”