The term uterine cancer refers to both cervical cancer and endometrial cancer. The cervix is the bottom portion of the uterus; the endometrium refers to the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus. According to the American Cancer Society, although some cases can be detected through early screening, noticeable symptoms of cervical or uterine cancer often do not appear until the cancer is more advanced.
Positive Pap Test
A positive Pap test, often the first sign of cervical cancer, usually occurs before symptoms appear. According to the American Cancer Society, a Pap test (performed during regular gynecological check-ups) is an effective screening tool for cervical cancer. However, it is often ineffective at identifying other forms of uterine cancer. The ACS reports that there are currently no screens for early detection of uterine cancer.
Abnormal Bleeding
One of the warning signs of both cervical and uterine cancer is abnormal bleeding. This can occur during or between periods. Some women experience this unusual bleeding after menopause, which, according to the National Institutes of Health, is when most cases of uterine cancer are detected. Cervical cancer, on the other hand, is often caused by the human papillomaviruses (HPV). This type may occur in women of menstruating age. According to the Mayo Clinic, women may also experience vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse.
Unusual Vaginal Discharge
Unusual vaginal discharge can be another indicator of cervical or uterine cancer. This discharge often takes place between periods. According to the Mayo Clinic, vaginal discharge caused by cervical or uterine cancer may be either thicker or more watery than a woman's usual discharge consistency. It may also have a stronger odor than normal. In some cases, discharge caused by cervical or uterine cancer may even contain small amounts of blood.
Pelvic Pain
Another common sign of both cervical and uterine cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic, is pelvic pain. Women with either type of cancer may experience pain in the abdomen and pelvis that cannot be explained. Pain may be dull and generalized, or it may be felt in the uterus or vaginal area. This type of pelvic pain caused by cervical or uterine cancer may be worse during or after intercourse or during menstruation. Pelvic pain may also radiate to other areas of the body, including the back or the legs.
Difficulty Urinating
Women with cervical or uterine cancer may have difficulty urinating. According to the National Cervical Cancer Public Education Campaign, this may occur due to a blockage in either the kidneys or the ureters (tubes leading from the kidneys to the bladder). This can cause bladder symptoms such as urinary urgency or difficulty emptying the bladder during urination.
Other Symptoms
Women with cervical or uterine cancer may have other signs and symptoms associated with cancer in general, according to the National Cervical Cancer Public Education Campaign. These include unusual weight loss and anemia. While these symptoms may occur alone, they will often occur in conjunction with other common signs.
