Symptoms of Womb Cancer: Expert Gynaecologist in London

Womb cancer, also known as uterine or endometrial cancer, affects thousands of women across the UK each year. Recognising the symptoms of womb cancer early can significantly improve treatment outcomes and overall prognosis. This guide explains what signs to watch for, when to seek specialist help, and how private gynaecological care in London can support your journey toward diagnosis and treatment.

Understanding Womb Cancer — What It Is and Why Early Recognition Matters

Womb cancer develops in the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) and is the fourth most common cancer among women in the UK. According to Cancer Research UK, around 9,700 women are diagnosed with womb cancer annually, with most cases occurring in women over 50, particularly those who have gone through menopause.

Understanding the symptoms of womb cancer is crucial because early detection dramatically improves treatment success. Unlike some cancers that develop silently, womb cancer often presents warning signs relatively early, giving women the opportunity to seek medical attention promptly.

What Causes Womb Cancer?

Several factors may increase your risk of developing womb cancer:

  • Hormonal imbalances: Excess oestrogen without sufficient progesterone can stimulate abnormal endometrial growth
  • Age: Risk increases significantly after menopause
  • Obesity: Fat tissue produces oestrogen, elevating hormone levels
  • Family history: Genetic conditions like Lynch syndrome increase susceptibility
  • Medical history: Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), diabetes, or previous breast cancer treatment with tamoxifen

While having risk factors doesn’t guarantee you’ll develop womb cancer, awareness helps you stay vigilant about potential symptoms.

Recognising the Key Symptoms of Womb Cancer

The most common symptoms of womb cancer centre around unusual vaginal bleeding and discharge. Being aware of these signs empowers you to seek timely medical advice.

Primary Warning Signs:

Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
This is the hallmark symptom, occurring in approximately 90% of cases. Watch for:

  • Any vaginal bleeding after menopause (even light spotting)
  • Bleeding between periods or unusually heavy periods in pre-menopausal women
  • Bleeding after sexual intercourse
  • Irregular menstrual cycles that differ from your normal pattern

Unusual Vaginal Discharge
You may notice watery, blood-stained, or pink discharge that has an unpleasant odour, even without visible bleeding.

Additional Symptoms:

  • Pelvic pain or discomfort that persists
  • Pain during sexual intercourse
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • A palpable mass in your lower abdomen (in advanced cases)

If you’re experiencing any symptoms of womb cancer, particularly post-menopausal bleeding, it’s essential to consult a gynaecologist promptly. While these symptoms can indicate other benign conditions, only proper medical assessment can provide accurate diagnosis.

If you’ve noticed unusual bleeding or discharge, seeking expert evaluation is vital. Dr Saurabh Phadnis offers private gynaecology consultations across London, providing thorough assessments and swift access to diagnostic procedures tailored to your concerns.

Diagnostic Pathways and Treatment Options for Womb Cancer

How Is Womb Cancer Diagnosed?

When you present with potential symptoms of womb cancer, your gynaecologist will conduct several investigations:

  1. Clinical History and Examination: Detailed discussion of symptoms and pelvic examination
  2. Transvaginal Ultrasound: Assesses endometrial thickness and uterine abnormalities
  3. Endometrial Biopsy: Tissue sample taken for laboratory analysis
  4. Hysteroscopy: Camera examination of the womb lining under local or general anaesthesia

Treatment Approaches

Treatment depends on cancer stage, grade, and your overall health:

  • Surgery: Hysterectomy (removal of the womb) is the primary treatment for most cases
  • Radiotherapy: May be used alongside surgery or as standalone treatment
  • Chemotherapy: For advanced or recurrent disease

Hormone therapy: In specific cases where cancer cells are hormone-sensitive

How a Private Consultant Gynaecologist in London Supports Your Care Journey

Choosing private gynaecological care in London for concerns about symptoms of womb cancer means benefiting from:

Rapid Access to Expertise

Private consultations typically occur within days, reducing the anxiety of waiting. Dr Saurabh Phadnis, a consultant gynaecologist practising in London, specialises in women’s health conditions, including cancer diagnosis and management.

Comprehensive Diagnostic Services

Private clinics offer streamlined access to ultrasound scans, biopsies, and hysteroscopy procedures, often on the same day or within 48 hours of your initial consultation.

Continuity of Care

You’ll see the same specialist throughout your diagnostic journey, ensuring personalised attention and consistent communication about your results and options.

Convenient Locations

With practices across central London and surrounding areas including Westminster, Harley Street, Chelsea, and Kensington, accessing specialist care fits more easily around work and family commitments.

Common Patient Questions About Symptoms of Womb Cancer

 What are the main symptoms of womb cancer I shouldn’t ignore?

Post-menopausal bleeding is the most significant warning sign. Any vaginal bleeding after menopause warrants immediate medical assessment, as does persistent irregular bleeding, unusual discharge, or pelvic pain.

How quickly should I seek help if I notice symptoms?

Don’t delay. While many cases of abnormal bleeding have benign causes like polyps or hormonal changes, only proper investigation can rule out cancer. Contact a gynaecologist as soon as possible.

What are the benefits of private womb cancer assessment in London?

Private care offers rapid consultations, faster diagnostic testing, consultant continuity, and flexible appointment times. This approach reduces anxiety and enables quicker treatment initiation if cancer is diagnosed.

What happens if cancer is confirmed?

Your consultant will discuss staging, treatment options, and expected outcomes. Many women with early-stage womb cancer achieve excellent results with surgery. Your specialist will coordinate care, whether through private treatment or NHS referral for specific procedures.

Take the Next Step Toward Peace of Mind

Recognising the symptoms of womb cancer and acting promptly can make a profound difference to your health outcomes. While experiencing these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you have cancer, professional assessment is the only way to obtain accurate answers and appropriate care.

If you’re concerned about unusual bleeding, discharge, or pelvic symptoms, seeking expert evaluation brings clarity and, when needed, swift access to treatment. Private gynaecological care in London offers the advantage of rapid appointments, comprehensive testing, and personalised attention throughout your diagnostic journey.

Book your private consultation with Dr Saurabh Phadnis in London today. With extensive experience in diagnosing and managing gynaecological conditions, Dr Phadnis provides compassionate, expert care tailored to your individual needs, helping you take control of your health with confidence.

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