Different types of reproductive cancer, ovarian and uterine cancers affect only women. The National Women's Health Information Center points out that two forms of uterine cancers exist: endometrial cancer and uterine sarcomas. With the endometrial cancer, the cancer forms on the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium. With uterine sarcomas, the cancer grows on the muscles. Ovarian cancer can affect the egg-producing cells, the tissues that cover the ovaries or the hormone producing tissues, according to the MayoClinic.com. All three types of cancers produce similar symptoms.
Abnormal Bleeding
Since uterine and ovarian cancers affect a woman's reproductive system, patients can have abnormal vaginal bleeding, even if a patient has gone through menopause. The American Cancer Society notes that 85 percent of uterine sarcoma patients have bleeding between periods or bleeding after menopause. Patients with endometrial cancer can also have bleeding between periods or bleeding after menopause. The MayoClinic.com adds that endometrial cancer patients may have prolonged periods. Changes in menstruation can occur in ovarian cancer patients as well.
Pain
Pain can occur with these reproductive cancers. The MayoClinic.com explains that ovarian cancer patients often have pelvic pain. Patients may have dyspareunia, in which they have pain during intercourse. Low back pain can also occur with ovarian cancer. Endometrial cancer patients may have pelvic pain as well. The American Cancer Society notes that about 10 percent of uterine sarcoma patients have pelvic pain, or have a tumor they can feel.
Vaginal Discharge
Vaginal discharge that does not contain blood can occur with both types of uterine cancers. For example, the American Cancer Society points out that 10 percent of women with uterine sarcoma have unusual vaginal discharge.
Weight Changes
Uterine and ovarian cancers can affect patients' weight and appetite. For example, patients with endometrial cancer may have unintended weight loss. Patients with uterine cancer can experience a loss of appetite, which may occur along with a lack of energy. The MayoClinic.com points out that uterine cancer patients may have increased abdominal girth and bloating, which can make it harder for their clothes to fit.
Urinary and Bowel Changes
The MayoClinic.com notes that women with ovarian cancer may have changes in their urinary and bowel habits. For example, patients can have constipation, which makes it difficult to pass solid waste. Patients can also have urinary urgency, in which they have a strong need to urinate. The urinary urgency can occur with a frequent need to urinate.
