Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month

As September draws to a close it is very important to remember the signs and symptoms of gynaecological cancer. There are five gynaecological cancers: womb, ovarian, cervical, vulval and vaginal. Each year in the UK, over 22,000 women are diagnosed with a gynaecological cancer. Sadly 21 women die each day from their gynaecological cancer.
September is Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month.

Awareness is key, as recognising gynaecological cancer symptoms can mean an earlier diagnosis and a better outcome.

Ovarian Cancer symptoms

  • Persistent bloating
  • Persistent pelvic/ abdominal pain
  • Difficulty eating, feeling full quickly or feeling nauseous 
  • Change in bowel habits
  • Needing to urinate more frequently 

Womb cancer symptoms

  • Bleeding in between periods, after sex or after menopause
  • Heavier periods
  • vaginal discharge pink/watery/ brown/ prune coloured

Vaginal Cancer symptoms

  • Bleeding in between periods, after sex or after menopause
  • Bad smelling / blood stained discharge
  • Pain after sex
  • A vaginal lump
  • Persistent vaginal itch

Cervical

  • Bleeding between periods or after sex 
  • Pain during sex
  • Unpleasant smelling discharge

Vulval

  • A lasting itch
  • Pain or soreness
  • Thickened, raised, red, white or dark patches of the skin of the vulva
  • Lump on the vulva

If you have any of these symptoms do not hesitate in contacting your GP. 

Read more on gynaecological cancers from the Eve Appeal.