Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month

Gynaecological health is always a difficult topic to discuss. Not because it’s a tricky topic, but because of the stigma and emotions that are caught up in it. It’s a sensitive issue, and something many women don’t like to talk about openly for fear of being embarrassed.

But at JFJ we say screw embarrassment. It’s essential to understand your body, know what’s normal and when something is wrong, and more importantly, what warning signs you need to be looking out for. That way, any issues that do crop up can be caught quickly, rather than finding out too late for anything to be done.

Since next month is gynaecological cancer awareness month, we wanted to spread some awareness ourselves, and give you a brief overview of what gynaecological cancers are, the warning signs, and what you can do to stay protected.

What Are Gynaecological Cancers?

Gynaecological cancers are essentially any cancer that is found in a woman’s reproductive system. There are 5 types:

• Ovarian

• Cervical

• Vaginal

• Vulva

• Womb

Every year in the UK around 22,050 women and people with gynae organs are diagnosed with one of these cancers. That adds up to around 60 people a day receiving this life-changing news, and sadly 21 of them won’t survive it. That’s why it’s so important to know what you’re looking for.

What Are The Symptoms Of Gynaecological Cancers?

Because there are 5 types of gynaecological cancer, there’s quite a broad spectrum of symptoms. As with anything like this, if you believe you have any symptoms, it’s important to get checked out by your GP. There’s no such thing as being too careful here.

Ovarian Cancer

The symptoms of ovarian cancer are very similar to other, much more common and less serious conditions, which can make it difficult to diagnose early. Symptoms can include:

• A swollen stomach

• Pain in the back

• Pain in the lower stomach

Cervical Cancer

Very early-stage cervical cancer might not cause any symptoms at all, and is usually detected early through screening tests. Later-stage symptoms can include:

• Heavier periods than you normally have

• Vaginal bleeding between periods, after sex or after menopause

Vaginal Cancer

• Bleeding after menopause, between periods or after sex

• Blood-stained vaginal discharge

• Pain when peeing, needing to pee often or blood in your pee

• Pain in the pelvic area

• Constipation

• Feeling the need to poo, even if you’ve just been

• Swelling in your legs

Remember though that some of these symptoms can be caused by other conditions, but it’s important to see your GP about any of them.

Vulva Cancer

• Burning when passing urinating

• Soreness in the vulva

• Ulcers on the vulva

Womb Cancer

Usually the first sign of womb cancer is unusual vaginal bleeding. This could be:

• Bleeding after the menopause

• Bleeding between periods

• Heavier periods than usual (if you haven’t been through the menopause)

• Bloody or pink water when you use the bathroom, or bloody/pink vaginal discharge

Less common symptoms include:

• Pain or discomfort in the pelvic area

• Pain during sex

If you have any of these symptoms, especially unusual vaginal bleeding, talk to your doctor right away.

Are There Any Screening Tests?

Unfortunately, there are not proactive screening tests for all types of cancer. When it comes to gynaecological cancer, there is only 1 national screening programme in the UK, which is for cervical cancer.  The main risk factor for cervical cancer is an infection called HPV (human papilloma virus if you’re interested), so this screening looks for HPV, and any abnormalities in cervical cells that could lead to cancer if left untreated.

It’s done via a smear test, which takes a sample of cervical cells to be analysed, and takes around 5 minutes. Women and people with a cervix are invited to have a cervical screening every 3-5 years from age 25 to 64. These screening tests have helped find cancer very early, even if there are no symptoms yet. If you are eligible, it’s important you have a screening test done.

Can You Prevent Gynaecological Cancer?

Yes, and no. Specifically, you can reduce your risk of cervical cancer by getting the HPV vaccine and attending your screenings regularly. The HPV vaccine protects you against the types of HPV that most often cause cervical, vaginal and vulvar cancers. The HPV vaccine can be given to anyone (male or female, since men can spread the virus even if it doesn’t increase their risk of cancer) from the age of 9, but is most recommended for preteens. Other than that, it really is about reducing your risk factors – don’t smoke, make healthy choices, eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly.

If you, or someone you know is affected by a cancer diagnosis of any type, Jill’s Fundraising Journey is here for you. We know how difficult a cancer diagnosis can be, and we wanted to provide a way for those with cancer and their families to get away from all of that stress and spend some quality time reconnecting and relaxing together. You can book your free stay here, or if you would like to book Jill’s Place for a private holiday, you can do that too! All funds go towards supporting the charity in continuing our work.