Uterine cancer

Uterine cancer, also called cancer of the uterus, occurs when abnormal cells develop in the uterus (womb) and begin growing in an uncontrolled way.¹

The uterus is part of the female reproductive system, and is around the size and shape of a hollow, upside-down pear. The uterus is located low in the abdomen between the bladder and rectum and is connected to the vagina via the cervix (the neck of the uterus).¹

Different tests may be performed to assess symptoms and diagnose uterine cancer, including the type and disease stage.^2,3 As well as a physical and pelvic examination, tests may include:^1-3

• Pelvic ultrasound – an ultrasound uses soundwaves to create a picture of the uterus and ovaries and is performed using a small handheld wand called a transducer; for an abdominal ultrasound, the transducer is used over the abdominal surface; for a transvaginal ultrasound, the transducer is inserted into the vagina; both types of pelvic ultrasound may be performed during the same appointment
• Endometrial biopsy – a long, thin plastic tube is inserted into the vagina and used to gently suck a sample of cells from the uterine lining; these endometrial cells will be examined under a microscope for signs of cancer
• Hysteroscopy and biopsy – a telescopic device with a light and camera (called a hysteroscope) is inserted into the vagina to allow the doctor to see inside the uterus and take a biopsy of the uterine lining; a hysteroscopy is usually performed under general anaesthesia

Treatment recommended for uterine cancer depends on different factors including the type, stage, and severity of cancer, as well as the patient’s general health, age, and personal preferences.^2,3 Treatment options may include:^1-3

• Surgery – this treatment aims to remove the cancer and uterine cancer may be treated by removing the uterus and cervix, and sometimes also the ovaries and fallopian tubes; surgery may be used alone, or in combination with radiation therapy or chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy – this treatment uses a controlled dose of radiation, usually in the form of high energy x-rays, to help kill cancer cells or slow their growth and spread
• Chemotherapy – this treatment uses medications, usually given by injection or tablet, to help kill cancer cells or slow their growth and spread; chemotherapy can be used in conjunction with other cancer treatments
• Hormone therapy – this treatment uses hormones to control growth and activity of cancer cells that depend on hormones to grow; it may be used to treat uterine cancer that has spread or come back (recurred), or if surgery is not an option
• Immunotherapy – this treatment helps a patient’s own immune system fight the cancer, with different types of immunotherapies that work in different ways to treat different cancers
• Targeted therapy – this treatment uses drugs that are designed to attack certain features of cancer cells to stop their growth and spread

All cancer treatments may have side effects. The type and severity of side effects will vary between individuals. You can ask your doctor for detailed information about the side effects which you may experience with any treatment recommended for you.¹

A cancer diagnosis can be life changing, and you may experience many different emotions.¹ Your care team aim to know your name as quickly as possible, and to understand who you are as a person.

Your multidisciplinary care team are here to support you before, during and after your cancer treatment. We aim to provide you with the support you need, which may also include allied health services such as a psychologist, exercise physiologist, physiotherapist, and dietitian.

If you have any enquiries about our centres or services, please contact your local GenesisCare centre. View a list of our centres here.

We understand that you may have more questions about uterine cancer. You may find the following organisations helpful to contact: