Gynaecological Cancer effects over 21,000 women in the UK each year, which is why it is so important to raise awareness of the symptoms for early diagnosis, prevention strategies and the way in which it can be treated.
Cervical, Ovarian, Uterine, Vaginal and Vulval cancer all fall under the umbrella of Gynaecological cancer, as they all develop inside a woman’s reproductive organs. Each type has different symptoms to look out for that all women should be aware of, however abnormal vaginal bleeding is a common sign of all gynaecological cancers except vulval cancer.
For cervical cancer Pap or HPV tests are essential in identifying it as, in the early stages, there are typically no symptoms. They are also useful in identifying vaginal or vulval cancer as both are associated with HPV infection.
Routine screening is not recommended for uterine cancer which is why being aware of the symptoms is so crucial. Similarly, there is no routine screening for ovarian cancer for women without symptoms.
NICE has compiled a list of symptoms suggestive of gynaecological cancers here.
The Eve Appeal
The Eve Appeal is a charity that raises awareness and funds for the prevention and earlier diagnosis of gynaecological cancer and with gynaecological cancer awareness month being this September there are great ways to get involved yourself. This year The Eve Appeal is hosting a ‘Trek to Remember’ on the 25th September across the Yorkshire Three Peaks, or inviting you to take 210,000 steps over the course of the month for the 21 women who die a day from gynaecological cancer.
Furthermore, last year it became compulsory for sex education to be a part of the national curriculum meaning that students will be taught about their anatomy and how to look after their gynaecological health alongside the importance of cervical screenings.
This means we are moving towards a place as a society where gynaecological health is not a subject people shy away from. As a result the stigma around routine screenings and checking potential symptoms with professionals will change encouraging more people to get checked.
Further reading
For information about cancer misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, failed diagnosis and your legal right to seek action, see our cancer claims page on out website.
WHAT TO DO NEXT
If you have suffered as a result of failed diagnosis, late diagnosis or misdiagnosis which has caused harm to you as a result, get in touch today for a no-obligation consultation in complete confidence. Contact us by the webchat feature of this page, email us, or call us on 0113 200 9787 to find out how we can help you.
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