Signs and symptoms of uterine cancer

Uterine cancer is a form of cancer that develops in the uterus. In 2021, about 66,570 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.

For most women with endometrial cancer, abnormal bleeding 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 vaginal discharge without signs of blood
• Difficult or painful urination
• Pain during intercourse
• Pain and/or a mass in the pelvic area
• Unintentional weight loss

For most women with uterine sarcoma, unusual vaginal bleeding or spotting is the most common symptom. Other common symptoms of uterine tumors include:

• Frequent urination
• Pain in the abdomen
• Mass (lump or growth) in the vagina
• Constant feeling of fullness

These signs and symptoms may be caused by conditions other than uterine cancer. Patients experiencing any of them are urged to see a doctor to determine the cause.

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