Vagina Pain Can Signal Uterine Cancer

Uterine cancer (also called endometrial cancer) is one of the most common forms of cancer in women, especially postmenopausal women. It occurs when cancer cells develop in the lining of the uterus.

Fortunately, it is easy to treat if identified early. Treatment for postmenopausal women usually involves a hysterectomy to remove the uterus. For premenopausal women who still want to have children, hormone therapy and chemotherapy are other options.

Possible signs of uterine cancer include:

• Postmenopausal bleeding, or abnormal bleeding in premenopausal women
• Vagina pain or pelvic pain
• Pain during intercourse
• Abnormal vaginal discharge

The exact cause of uterine cancer remains unknown, but most experts think that an excess amount of estrogen (a naturally occurring hormone) may play a role.

 

Other less severe conditions (such as uterine fibroids or even a yeast infection) can have many of the same symptoms as uterine cancer, so it’s important to see a clinician for an evaluation.

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