Uterine cancer is a form of cancer that develops in the uterus. In 2024, about 67,880 new uterine cancer cases are expected to be diagnosed in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society.
Symptoms of uterine cancer may differ depending on the type—endometrial cancer or uterine sarcoma. Most women with uterine cancer, about 92 percent, have endometrial cancer, or a tumor that develops in the tissues of the uterine lining, called the endometrium. The other primary type, uterine sarcoma, is rare and develops in the muscles or other tissues of the uterus.
This article will cover:
- Common symptoms of uterine cancer
- Early warning signs of endometrial cancer
- Early warning signs of uterine sarcoma
- Diagnosing uterine cancer
Common symptoms of uterine cancer
Patients with endometrial cancer and uterine sarcoma often experience similar symptoms, including:
- Unusual bleeding or spotting
- Abnormal vagin*l discharge
- Pelvic pain
Early warning signs of endometrial cancer
For most women with endometrial cancer, abnormal bleeding (like that not related to monthly periods or occurring after menopause) is the most common symptom, and the first one they notice. Symptoms of a tumor in the uterus usually affect both premenopausal and postmenopausal women. Other common symptoms of endometrial cancer include:
- Unusual vagin*l discharge not caused by menstruation
- Difficult or painful urination
- Pain during sex
- Pelvic pain
- Unintentional weight loss
Uterine cancer treatment: The care you need is one call away
Your multidisciplinary team will work with you to develop a personalized plan to treat your uterine cancer in a way that fits your individual needs and goals.
Early warning signs of uterine sarcoma
For most women with uterine sarcoma, unusual vagin*l bleeding or spotting is the most common symptom. Abnormal vagin*l bleeding may include bleeding that occurs outside of menstruation or postmenopausal bleeding. Other common symptoms of uterine tumors include:
- Frequent urination
- Abdominal pain or full feeling in the abdomen
- A mass (lump or growth) in the vagin*
- Constant feeling of fullness
These signs and symptoms may be causedby conditions other than uterine cancer. Patients experiencing any of them are urged to see a doctor to determine the cause.
Diagnosing uterine cancer
Doctors are prepared to help their patients determine the cause of symptoms. Patients should be prepared to:
- Provide details about symptoms and how long they’ve lasted
- Undergo a physical exam and/or a pelvic exam
- Discuss medical history
- Undergo additional tests
