Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month

There are different gynaecological cancers. These include:

• Womb
• Ovarian
• Cervical
• Vulval
• Vaginal

Symptoms of gynaecological cancer vary depending on the type of cancer. If you have any symptoms, it is important to get them checked out by your GP.

Womb cancer

Usually, the first sign of womb cancer is unusual vaginal bleeding. For example, this could be:

• bleeding after the menopause (this is the most common symptom)
• bleeding between periods
• heavier period than usual (if you have not been through the menopause)
• a bloody or pink and water vaginal discharge

Less common symptoms are pain or discomfort in the pelvic area, or pain during sex.

If you have any unusual vaginal bleeding, always see your GP about it. Other conditions that affect the womb, such as fibroids, can also cause unusual vaginal bleeding.

Read our information on womb cancer.

Ovarian cancer

The symptoms of ovarian cancer  are similar to other much more common and less serious conditions. This can make I difficult to diagnose early. Symptoms can include a swollen tummy and pain in the back or lower tummy.

Cervical cancer

Very early-stage cervical cancer may not cause symptoms. It usually found and treated because of cervical screening tests, this includes a smear test.

Common symptoms of cervical cancer include:

• heavier periods than you normally have
• vaginal bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause

If you get between your regular cervical screening appointments, do not wait for your next appointment. Talk to your GP or practice nurse and get the symptoms checked.

Read our information about symptoms of cervical cancer.

Vulval cancer

Symptoms of Symptoms of vulval cancer can include burning when passing urine and a sore or ulcerated area of the vulva. We have more information about all the symptoms of vulval cancer. 

Vaginal cancer

The most common symptoms of vaginal cancer are:

• bleeding after menopause, between periods, or after sex
• blood-stained vaginal discharge
• pain when peeing (passing urine), needing to pee often, or blood in your pee
• pain the pelvic (lower tummy) area
• constipation
• feeling you need to poo, even though you have just been (tenesmus)
• swelling in your legs.

These symptoms can be caused by many other conditions. But if you notice any of them, it is important to see your GP.

Cancer screening tests are used to find people who may have cancer or who may need treatment or monitoring to prevent cancer from developing.

The UK has 3 screening programmes. This includes cervical screening. Currently there are no screening programmes for other gynaecological cancers.

A cervical screening is a way of preventing cervical cancer (cancer of the cervix). The main risk factor for cervical cancer is an infection called the human papilloma virus (HPV).

Read more information about cervical screening including who should get a screening and when you may be invited to have one

Having tests and waiting for results can be a difficult time. We have more information that may help if you are going for tests, waiting for tests results, or you have just been diagnosed.

The treatment you will receive depends on many factors including:

• type of cancer you have
• your general health
• the type and size of the tumour
• whether the cancer has begun to spread.

A team of specialists will talk about the best treatment for you. They are called a multidisciplinary team.

Read our information on treatment for womb, ovarian, cervical, vulval, and vaginal cancer.

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with a type of gynaecological cancer, we’re here to help. We can help with how you’re feeling, help to support you with any money worries, and the rising cost of living.