Frequent Symptoms
In general terms, the most common symptom of endometrial cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding. Approximatley 90 percent of women have this symptom, according to the American Cancer Society.
Before Menopause
If you haven’t yet gone through menopause, abnormal vaginal bleeding includes:
Periods that are heavy and prolonged (lasting longer than seven days)Heavy spotting that occurs between periodsPeriods that occur every 21 days or soonerVaginal bleeding that occurs before and/or after sex
After Menopause
Any vaginal bleeding or spotting that starts a year or more after you’ve gone through menopause is considered abnormal and requires an evaluation by your healthcare provider.
Other symptoms of endometrial cancer that can occur before or after menopause include:
A watery or blood-tinged vaginal dischargePain during sexual intercourse
Symptoms that may occur in the later stages of cancer include:
Pelvic pain or cramping Abdominal pain Being able to feel a mass or tumor in your pelvis Losing weight without trying Fatigue Bloating Changes in bowel or bladder habits Feeling full quickly
Complications
The only potential complication of endometrial cancer symptoms is anemia, a low red blood cell count. Symptoms of anemia include fatigue, weakness, cold hands and/or feet, irregular heartbeat, headaches, shortness of breath, pale or yellow-tinged skin, chest pain, and feeling dizzy or lightheaded. This kind of anemia is caused by an iron deficiency in your body as a result of blood loss.
Thankfully, it’s easily reversed through a diet that’s rich in vitamins and/or taking iron supplements, as well as by treating your endometrial cancer, which will stop the bleeding altogether. Speak with your oncologist before beginning any supplements.
When to See a Healthcare Provider
You should see your healthcare provider if you have any of the above-listed symptoms of endometrial cancer. They may turn out to indicate something else, but if you do have cancer, the earlier it’s detected, the better your outcome will be.
Keep in mind that if you have any abnormal discharge at any stage of life, even if it’s not bloody, you may still have endometrial cancer and should see your healthcare provider. Discharge that isn’t bloody is associated with around 10 percent of cases of endometrial cancer.
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Abnormal vaginal bleeding and spottingAbnormal vaginal dischargeChanges in the menstrual cycle
