The uterus is a part of the female reproductive system. A malignant tumor in any part of the uterus is named as uterine cancer. There are many types of uterine cancers, depending on the location of the tumor and the part of the uterus affected by it. Some examples of uterine cancers are endometrial carcinoma, endometrioid carcinoma, carcinosarcoma, uterine sarcoma, and gestational trophoblastic disease.

Women having uterine cancer may experience some signs and symptoms depending on the tumor type and stage. It is advisable to consult your doctor immediately if you notice any one or a few of these symptoms –

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
  This is the most commonly observed symptom of uterine cancer. The flow can be watery and blood streaked or thick with excessive blood. Abnormal bleeding especially, during or after menopause indicates problems in the uterus. Women of reproductive age can experience vaginal bleeding between periods or irregular menstrual period with heavy bleeding.
• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
  It may appear pink and watery or brown and thick.
• Difficulty and pain during urination
  This is a common symptom of urinary tract infections. However, if the pain and discomfort do not go away with medications and is recurrent it might be a sign of uterine cancer.
• Pain during intercourse
  A tumor in the uterus can be causing pain during intercourse. However, there are many reasons for women to experience pain during intercourse. It is advisable to consult a doctor to know the exact reason for pain, especially if it is intense and happens regularly.
• Pain in the lower abdominal region, legs, and back
  When uterine cancer starts to spread to other parts of the body, women experience pain in the abdominal region, back, and legs. This usually happens in the late stages of uterine cancer.
• Pelvic pain
  Women experiencing pelvic pain with other symptoms of uterine cancer should report it to the doctor. Pelvic pain usually occurs in the later stages of uterine cancer.
• Unexplained weight loss
  This can happen due to a number of underlying health conditions, cancer being one of them. If you are losing weight rapidly, without any apparent reason, report it to your doctor.
• An enlarged uterus
  An enlarged uterus is generally one of the signs of uterine cancers. The doctor will be able to detect it during the pelvic examination.

Other symptoms include bloating and changes in bowel and bladder habits.

The exact cause of uterine cancer is not known, though there are some factors that increase the risk. The risk factors include metabolic syndrome, obesity, estrogen therapy that is not taken in combination with progesterone therapy, polycystic ovary syndrome, early menstruation, absence of pregnancy, and late menopause. Women with a family history of uterine, pelvic and other cancers are at an increased risk of getting uterine cancers.

Uterine cancer can be treated completely if it is identified during the early stages. Women should pay close attention to any changes in their menstrual flow and cycle and watch out for other symptoms of uterine cancer. They should report symptoms to a doctor immediately, to rule out the possibility of uterine cancer.