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Each year, about 450 Queensland women are diagnosed with uterine cancer. It is the most commonly diagnosed gynaecological cancer in Australia. If you or someone you care about is facing this diagnosis, Cancer Council Queensland can help, so you don’t have to go through cancer alone.
The terms “women,” “woman,” and “female” used on this page reflect the language used in the research studies and data sources referenced. Unfortunately, these terms do not encompass all individuals with these reproductive organs. At Cancer Council Queensland, we remain committed to providing information that is both accurate and accessible to everyone. We acknowledge and stand in solidarity with the LGBTIQA+ community.
Our team is here to listen and support you.
Cancer of the uterus occurs when cells in any part of the uterus become abnormal, grow out of control and form a mass (another name for a tumour). Cancer of the uterus can either be endometrial cancer, or the less common uterine sarcoma.
There are two main types of endometrial cancer, both of which begin in the endometrium – the lining of the uterus:
Uterine sarcomas are much rarer than endometrial cancers and are soft-tissue sarcomas that can form in the stroma – the connective tissue and muscles supporting the endometrium.
There are three types of uterine sarcoma:
Like many cancers, the exact reason some people develop uterine cancers is not fully understood, but we do know there are several factors which can increase a person’s risk, including:
While many of the symptoms of uterine cancers can overlap with other conditions, it’s important to see your doctor if you notice a change, particularly if that change includes abnormal bleeding.
Abnormal bleeding might include bleeding or spotting after menopause, bleeding between periods, or constant bleeding that doesn’t ease between periods.
Other, less-common symptoms can include:
If your doctor is concerned you may have uterine cancer, they may order one or more of the following tests:
Other tests might include:
Some of these tests might include a wait for results, which can be a stressful and overwhelming time. It’s important to make sure you have support during this time and reach out to friends and family.
Uterine cancer is often caught early, which means it can be removed surgically – this could be the only treatment you need. If you do need additional treatment, it could include hormone therapy, radiation or chemotherapy.
When we talk about the prognosis of a disease, we’re referring to the likely or expected outcome, but it’s important to remember that not even experts can predict exactly how your disease will unfold.
Your doctor will use a range of factors to make an educated appraisal of your individual prognosis, considering:
Discussing your prognosis and thinking about the future can be challenging and stressful. It may help to talk with family and friends. You can also call Cancer Council Queensland 13 11 20 if you need more information or emotional support.
While many of the symptoms of uterine cancer can overlap with other medical conditions or irregularities in your cycle, it’s important to see your doctor if you’re concerned, or if you notice any changes. One of the most common symptoms reported by women who are diagnosed with uterine cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding – this is bleeding outside your normal cycle, or bleeding that is different (heavier, a different colour or after you have gone through menopause.)
It’s very, very uncommon for a uterine fibroid to become cancer – fibroids are benign tumours that begin in the muscle layer of the uterus (myometrium).
Endometrial cancer is a type of uterine cancer, but not the only form of the disease. Uterine cancer is usually classified as either endometrial cancer or uterine sarcoma.
