Seven things you might not know about gynaecological cancer

1. There are five types of gynaecological cancers 

Gynaecological cancer is any cancer that develops in the female reproductive system, including the ovaries, womb, cervix, vagina, and vulva. While these cancers affect the reproductive organs, they each have distinct symptoms, risk factors, and diagnostic and treatment pathways. Understanding the differences can aid early detection and improve treatment outcomes. Some cancers may present with subtle or non-specific symptoms, highlighting the importance of regular check-ups and paying attention to any unusual changes in your body.

2. Each type of gynaecological cancer presents differently

As mentioned, each type of gynaecological cancer has its own set of symptoms, some of which may be easy to miss. It is crucial to be aware of any unusual changes, no matter how small.

Ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer often presents with vague symptoms that many women may mistake for less serious conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or gluten intolerance. As a result, ovarian cancer is sometimes diagnosed at a late stage. 

A good way to check your symptoms is by using the BEAT acronym. 

• Bloating: persistent bloating that does not go away and causes discomfort or pain.
• Eating: difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, which may be due to the ovarian growths putting pressure on the stomach.
• Abdominal pain: discomfort in the abdomen or pelvis that persists. 
• Toilet: frequent urination or constipation. 

Cervical cancer

Cervical cancer affects the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Around 9 out of 10 cervical cancers are linked to the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), a virus commonly transmitted through sexual contact, including oral sex. However, cervical cancer can also occur in women who have never been sexually active.

Symptoms may include unusual vaginal bleeding (between periods, after sex, or post-menopause) and vaginal discharge that is brown or red in colour.

It is recommended that women over 25 should have regular cervical screenings (smear tests), which can detect abnormal cells in the cervix before they turn into cancer.

Womb cancer

Womb cancer primarily affects the lining of the uterus (endometrium). It shares some symptoms with cervical cancer, particularly abnormal bleeding. This includes heavier or irregular periods, or post-menopausal bleeding.

Vaginal cancer

Despite the outer part of the female reproductive system being referred to as the vagina, it is in fact an internal tube that connects the outer genitals to the cervix and womb. Vaginal cancer is rare but can present with symptoms like abnormal bleeding and the presence of a lump that you can feel with your fingers.

Vulval cancer

The vulva is the external part of the female reproductive system. Therefore, the symptoms of vulval cancer are often easier to recognise early on compared to other gynaecological cancers. Symptoms may include:

• Persistent itchiness, pain, or burning in the vulva.
• Changes in the skin of the vulva, such as thickening, a lump, or swelling.

3. Smoking affects your body’s ability to fight off the HPV virus

Women who smoke are more likely to develop cervical cancer because smoking weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to clear HPV infections. HPV is the main cause of cervical cancer, and smoking increases the likelihood of persistent HPV infections, particularly with the strains most likely to cause cancer.

4. Cervical screening can only detect cancer in the cervix

It’s important to understand that cervical screening is specifically designed to detect changes in the cervix that may lead to cervical cancer. The test cannot detect ovarian, womb, vulval, or vaginal cancers. For other gynaecological cancers, different tests, scans, and symptom tracking are necessary.

Gynaecology

Mater Private is the leading private hospital for the treatment of gynaecological cancer in Ireland. It also provides a range of medical and surgical treatment for benign gynaecological conditions.

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5. Not all HPV strains  cause cancer 

There are over 200 strains of HPV, which can be spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Categorised into low risk and high risk groups, only a few strains have been linked to the development of cancer.  Although not every strain of HPV is harmful, regular cervical checks are recommended to ensure any unusual changes in the cervix are detected early on. HPV vaccine has also been found to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer. 

6. Your menstrual history provides important information on cancer risk

Your menstrual history can offer clues about your gynaecological cancer risk. Women who start their periods early, experience late menopause, or have never been pregnant are exposed to oestrogen for a longer duration. This prolonged exposure increases the risk of developing certain types of gynaecological cancers and breast cancer, which are dependent on oestrogen to grow and develop. 

7. There is a link between diabetes and gynaecological cancer 

Women with diabetes are at a higher risk for certain gynaecological cancers, particularly endometrial cancer. This is likely because diabetes affects hormone levels and increases insulin resistance, both of which can promote the growth of abnormal cells. Additionally, obesity, which is often linked to type 2 diabetes, also contributes to cancer risk. Regular monitoring and healthy lifestyle changes can reduce this risk.

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The above content has been reviewed by Emer Hannigan, Clinical Nurse Manager 2 in Gynaecology Oncology.

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