Many women tend to ignore abnormal bleeding after menopause as just another hormonal change related to age. However, it can be a serious mistake because sometimes postmenopausal bleeding could be the earliest warning sign of endometrial (uterine) cancer.
Therefore, diagnosis (which includes CA-125 assay, CT scans, MRI scans, etc.) at an early stage becomes crucial, as it enables highly successful treatment outcomes. Most women with endometrial cancer need surgery.
Read this blog to have a deeper understanding of
- Endometrial cancer and its different types
- Early symptoms of uterine cancer
- How is it diagnosed?
- What treatment options are available?
What is Endometrial Cancer?
Endometrial cancer develops in the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus (womb). Because endometrial cancer makes up about 95% of all cases of uterine cancer, many people also refer to it as uterine cancer. However, not every uterine cancer is an endometrial cancer.
There are many different types of uterine cancer. Each type varies in the way it behaves and how it should be managed.
Types of Uterine Cancer:
Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma (Accounts for 75 Percent of All Uterine Cancers)
Forms in the glandular cells of the uterine lining.
Serous Adenocarcinoma (Accounts for 10 Percent of Uterine Cancers)
These tumors are more likely to spread to lymph nodes and other parts of the body.
Adenosquamous Carcinoma
This rare form has elements of both adenocarcinoma and carcinoma of the squamous cells that line the outer surface of the uterus.
Carcinosarcoma
This rare form of uterine cancer has elements of both adenocarcinoma and sarcoma.
What is the Difference Between Endometrial Cancer & Uterine Cancer?
Uterine cancer can refer to either endometrial cancer or uterine sarcoma. But individuals often use the terms “endometrial cancer” and “uterine cancer” the same.
But they are not exactly the same. Most uterine cancers are endometrial cancers, but not all uterine cancers can be endometrial cancers.
Here is the difference:
| Feature | Endometrial Cancer | Uterine Cancer |
| Origin | Begins in the lining (endometrium) | Can arise from any tissue of the uterus |
| Frequency | Most common type | Includes rare cancers like uterine sarcoma |
| Early Detection | Often detected early due to bleeding | Depends on cancer type |
What are the Early Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer
Signs of uterine cancer can be similar to those of many conditions; therefore, a detailed diagnosis is required.
The earliest warning sign is generally abnormal vaginal bleeding.
Other symptoms are:
- Unexplained heavy menstrual bleeding
- Watery or blood-stained vaginal discharge
- Constant pelvic pain or pressure
- Pain during coitus (in some women)
Causes of Endometrial Cancer
The exact cause of uterine cancer is unknown. Something happens that leads to changes in cells in the uterus. The mutated cells grow and multiply out of control, which can form a mass known as a tumor.
Hormonal imbalance plays a major role. When estrogen (stimulates growth of the endometrium) acts without sufficient progesterone (balances growth of the endometrium), the uterine lining continues to thicken. This increases the risk of abnormal cellular changes over time.
Factors That Increase the Risk of Developing Endometrial Cancer
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS), previously known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Never being pregnant
- Early menstruation
- Late menopause
- Increasing age
- Lynch syndrome
- Tamoxifen use
- Estrogen-only hormone therapy
How I Knew I Had Uterine Cancer
Only a doctor can confirm the diagnosis of uterine cancer. If you notice bleeding after menopause, spotting between periods, or unusually heavy cycles, consult your doctor for an early diagnosis.
Doctors can recommend the following diagnostic tests based on your condition.
| Test | Purpose |
| Pelvic examination | Initial assessment |
| Transvaginal ultrasound | Measures endometrial thickness |
| Endometrial biopsy | Confirms cancer by examining tissue |
| Hysteroscopy | Direct visualization of the uterine cavity |
| Dilation and Curettage (D&C) | Collects additional tissue if biopsy is inconclusive |
| CT Scan / MRI / PET Scan | Determines the extent of disease |
Treatment Options for Endometrial Cancer
Most women with endometrial cancer need surgery. Doctor personalize treatment plan based on the type of cancer and the overall health.
Following are the treatment options:
- Surgery (commonly involves the total hysterectomy, removal of both fallopian tubes, removal of both ovaries, removal of nearby lymph nodes)
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Hormone therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapy
Conclusion
Most of the time, you can’t prevent uterine cancer. However, you can take appropriate steps to lower your risk by:
- Managing diabetes.
- Maintaining a healthy weight.
- Talking to your provider about using progesterone-based or combined estrogen and progesterone hormonal contraceptives.
Also, do not delay your appointment with your doctor if you notice the following:
- Any bleeding after menopause
- Bleeding between menstrual periods
- Persistent pelvic pain
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Heavy or irregular bleeding after age 40
Early diagnosis helps improve treatment outcomes.
Why Choose Cocoon Hospital, Jaipur, for Uterine Cancer Care?
We take a multidisciplinary team approach to diagnosing and treating uterine cancer. Our experts are known for an innovative approach to identifying and removing only the necessary lymph nodes during surgery, an option that many women with early-stage uterine cancer select.
If you are searching for endometrial cancer treatment in Jaipur, choose Cocoon Hospital, known to offer comprehensive care, including gynecologic oncology consultation, advanced imaging, and minimally invasive surgery when appropriate. Our fertility preservation team can often guide women to options that help preserve fertility before undergoing treatment.
Call us today at 08929816349 to book your consultation with an experienced gynaecologist.
Meet Our Experts:
- Dr. Himani Sharma: 25 years of experience
- Dr. Priya Gupta: Over 22 years of experience
- Dr. Mitul Gupta: 24 years of experience
- Dr. Asha Susawat: 11 years of experience
- Dr. Adarsh Bhargava: 50 years of experience
- Dr. Anupama Gangwal: Over 30 years of experience
- Dr. Fiyonika Porwal: 10 years of experience
- Dr. Nisha Mangal: Over 15 years of experience
Disclaimer: The blog is for informational use only; it is not intended to replace professional guidance.
