Womb Cancer/Uterine Cancer
What is the uterus?
The uterus is also known as the womb. The lining of the uterus is known as the endometrium.
The endometrium thickens every month in response to a woman’s hormonal changes, and sheds at the end of every month, resulting in a monthly menstruation.
The womb is the main organ in child bearing, and is responsible for carrying a baby to full term.
What is uterine/womb cancer?
Uterine/womb cancer is uncontrolled or abnormal growth of the cells of the endometrium.
Uterine/womb cancer is the 4th commonest female cancer in Singapore, and usually occurs in post menopausal women.
Uterine cancer is also known as endometrial cancer.
What causes uterine cancer?
The following factors increase your chances of having uterine/endometrial cancer:
1. Increased age
2. Menstrual history – Early onset of mensus <12 years old, late menopause > 55 years old, or irregular and infrequent menstruation (less than 4 periods a year)
3. Childbearing – No prior childbirth
4. Family History – Positive family history of uterine/endometrial cancer
5. Medical History – Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), Diabetes, Obesity, previous history of breast or ovarian cancer, or previous Intrauterine Device (IUD)
How do I know if I have uterine cancer?
The usual symptom for uterine/womb cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding – this can present as bleeding after menopause, bleeding in between periods, bleeding after sex, or excessively heavy menstrual periods (menorrhagia).
Other common symptoms of uterine/womb cancer include abnormal vaginal discharge, pelvic pain and pain during sex (dyspareunia).
Do I need to screen for it?
There are no recommendations for screening of uterine cancer.
However, if you have any of the symptoms suggestive of uterine cancer, the best way to evaluate it is to have a pelvic ultrasound performed by your doctor.
Need a Female Doctor?
Having Women’s Health concerns?
Please visit our Partner Clinics or contact them at their GP Plus Clinics in Singapore. They are open on weekends too.
For more information, please visit DTAP Clinic website, www.dtapclinic.com or email them at hello@dtapclinic.com.sg
