This page was reviewed under our medical and editorial policy by
Maurie Markman, MD, President, Medicine & Science.
This page was updated on June 20, 2022.
Uterine cancer is a form of cancer that develops in the uterus. In 2023, about 66,200 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:
Patients with endometrial cancer and uterine sarcoma often experience similar symptoms, including:
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:
For most women with uterine sarcoma, unusual vaginal bleeding or spotting is the most common symptom. Abnormal vaginal bleeding may include bleeding that occurs outside of menstruation or postmenopausal bleeding. Other common symptoms of uterine tumors include:
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:
