Gynaecological cancers

Gynaecological cancers involve the female reproductive organs. They occur when abnormal cells grow in an uncontrolled way.

Types of gynaecological cancers

Gynaecological cancers are named after the organ or part of the body they first develop.

• Ovarian cancer
• Uterine cancer
• Cervical cancer
• Vulval cancer
• Vaginal cancer

Other types of gynaecological cancers include fallopian tube cancer and placenta cancer (a pregnancy-related cancer).

How common are gynaecological cancers?

1,085 Queensland women are diagnosed and 356 Queensland women die from gynaecological cancer each year.

Symptoms of gynaecological cancers

There are some symptoms you should look out for:

• unusual vaginal bleeding between periods, after menopause, or during or after sexual intercourse
• a smelly, watery discharge
• abdominal pain
• unexplained weight loss
• difficulty urinating, blood in urine, passing urine frequently or during the night
• a change in bowel habit
• pain during sexual intercourse
• heavier periods, or periods that last longer than usual
• itching, burning and soreness or pain in the vulva
• a lump, sore, swelling or wart-like growth on the vulva
• thickened, raised skin patches (may be red, white or dark brown)
• a mole on the vulva that changes shape or colour
• blood, pus or other discharge coming from an area of skin or sore spot in the vulva. It may have an offensive or unusual smell or colour (not related to your menstrual period)
• hard or swollen lymph nodes in the groin area
• pain in the pelvic area or rectum
• a lump in the vagina

Any of these symptoms can happen for other reasons, but it is best to check with your doctor if you are concerned.

Support for Queenslanders

If you are diagnosed with a gynaecological cancer, or have a family member or friend affected by cancer, you may need support. Our professional services and support programs are here to help you. Call Cancer Council 13 11 20 for more information

Find out more about:

Phone support
Email support
Cancer counselling
Practical and financial support
Support groups
Information sessions

You don’t have to face cancer alone – we’re here to help.

Resources

For more information about gynaecological cancers please see these resources

If you are a patient, family or friend and would like to order a copy of any of the Understanding Cancer of the Uterus, Cervical cancer, Ovarian cancer or Vulvar and Vaginal cancer booklets, please call Cancer Council 13 11 20