The warning signs of gynecologic cancers can be vague and similar to those of other conditions. It is important to pay attention to your body and understand what is normal for you. You should see a doctor immediately if you notice anything unusual that lasts for two weeks or longer.

Cervical cancer

The cervix is the lowest part of the womb (uterus) and is often called the neck of the womb. It affects women at all ages but is most often in women over the age of 30.

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main cause of cervical cancer. HPV is a common virus that can be passed from one person to another during sex.

Early stage cervical cancer may not have any obvious signs and symptoms. Yet if you have experienced abnormal bleeding or discharge from the vagina, please see your doctor right away. They may be caused by conditions other than cancer but the only way to know is to consult your doctor.

Cervical cancer can be prevented through screening tests and vaccination which prevents HPV infection.

Ovarian cancer

The ovaries are two small oval shaped organs which are part of the female reproductive system.

There are some known risk factors which may increase a woman’s susceptibility to ovarian cancer, including increasing age, never given birth or having trouble getting pregnant, having family history of ovarian cancer and endometriosis (a condition where tissue from the lining of the uterus grows elsewhere in the body).

Symptoms of ovarian cancer include swelling and pain in the abdomen or back, feeling full too quickly or having difficulty in eating, and changes in bowel or urinary function. These symptoms however are also common to other conditions. Please consult your doctor if you are in doubt.

Uterine cancer

The uterus or womb is a muscular pear shaped organ which at its narrower end is closed by the neck of the womb (cervix). The lining of the womb (uterus) is called the endometrium and it is from here that the cancer usually starts.

The exact cause of uterine cancer (also known as endometrial cancer) is still unknown. However, it is generally believed that women having taken hormone replacement treatment for a long time and those who have had trouble getting pregnant would have a higher chance of developing uterine cancer.

Abnormal bleeding, pain or pressure in your pelvis could be symptoms of uterine cancer. Please see a doctor right away if you have any symptoms. These signs may be caused by something else but the only way to know is to see your doctor.

Vulvar and vaginal cancer

The vulva is the outer part of the female genital organs. The vagina, also called the birth canal, is the tube-like channel between the bottom of the uterus and the outside of the body.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) and smoking are two of the known risks which may increase a woman’s susceptibility to vulvar and vaginal cancer.

It is important to pay attention to your body and know what is normal for you. If you observed any abnormal discharge or bleeding, change in bathroom habits or pain in your pelvis, please see a doctor right away. Also see a doctor if you have any of the other symptoms for two weeks or longer and they are not normal for you.