- Bleeding after menopause
Any amount of bleeding after the cessation of periods for a year, post the age of 40 is to be taken seriously as this could be the first symptom of uterine or cervical cancer. A visit to the gynecologist will involve a detailed history and examination; a Pap smear to look at the cells of the cervix under the microscope and a transvaginal ultrasonography to check the thickness inner lining of the uterus(endometrium) and to rule out abnormal growths within the uterus.
- Painful periods
Dysmenorrhea or painful periods may sometimes be the only symptom of cancer of the uterus although it’s often associated with bleeding abnormalities.
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Although most often due to a vaginal infection, cancerous growths of the cervix are associated with a foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
- Feeling full easily, bloating, irregular bowel habits, unexplained weight loss
However nonspecific these symptoms may appear, most cases of ovarian cancers are diagnosed late due to these symptoms being ignored.
A healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, cessation of smoking, and limiting the use of hormone replacement therapy can reduce one’s risk of gynecological cancers.
Early detection is the key to being cancer-free post-treatment; hence timely visits to the doctor and a detailed evaluation of the above symptoms can lead to early initiation of appropriate treatment and an improved outcome.
