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.
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.
