Endometrial (womb) cancer
Womb cancer is cancer that affects the womb (uterus). It's most common in women who've been through menopause.
About Endometrial (womb) cancer
Endometrial cancer is also commonly known as womb cancer. Anyone who has a womb can get this type of cancer, which usually starts in the lining of the womb (endometrium). It is most common in women who have been through menopause.
What to expect from your initial appointments
Most endometrial cancers occur post menopausal with post menopausal bleeding and will be refer to cancer exclusion clinic. You will likely receive an examination with a speculum, if required you may have a pipelle biopsy.
What to expect from diagnostic tests and investigations
Hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy is a procedure to examine the inside of the womb (uterus). It is carried out using a hysteroscope, which is a narrow telescope with a light and camera at the end. The hysteroscope is passed into your womb through your vagina and cervix.
Whilst undertaking a hysteroscopy a biopsy will be taken which is reviewed by the histopathologist to see if it is a womb cancer.
MRI
An MRI uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create a cross-sectional picture of the body. The scan normally takes between 45 minutes and one hour to complete. The aim of this is to plan the most appropriate surgery for you.
Ultrasound
To measure the lining of the womb.
CT scan
CT scans take pictures of your body. If cervical cancer is suspected you will have an abdomen and pelvis CT scan. This normally takes around 10 minutes.
Treatment options and what to expect
Surgery – Hysterectomy
Surgery remains one of the main treatments for this type of cancer and you may be offered a robotic assisted (laparoscopic) hysterectomy. This will involve the removal of your womb and cervix, tubes and ovaries using key hole surgery
Some patients will have surgery on its own, whilst others will require other treatments.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment, which uses medicine to destroys cancer cells. You may have chemotherapy on its own or with other anti-cancer treatments.
Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy is a treatment where radiation is used to destroys cancer cells. You may receive radiotherapy with chemotherapy. You could also receive it with brachytherapy.
Brachytherapy
Brachytherapy is a form of radiotherapy where a radioactive source is placed inside or next to the area requiring treatment. This allows for a high dose of treatment to be delivered in a targeted way.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy uses your immune system to fight cancer and works by helping your immune system to recognise and attack the cancer cells. You may be offered immunotherapy if your cancer returns after initial treatment.
More information about treatment for Endometrial (womb) cancer
Living with and beyond cancer
After completing your cancer treatment If you have any symptoms or concerns contact your clinical nurse specialist and your GP.