The first step to being able to spot any cancer symptoms is to know your body and what is normal for you. You may or may not have been taught about the gynaecological organs (female reproductive system) at home or at school, but it is never too late to learn about our bodies, and how we can look after our health.
Gynae cancer statistics
22,050
women & people with gynae organs diagnosed
each and every year in the UK
60
people receive
this life-changing news each day
21
people die
every day from their diagnosis
Have you noticed symptoms that are not normal for you? They’re more likely to be caused by something less serious than cancer, but it’s worth getting checked by a doctor.
Key gynae cancer symptoms:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge, including any bleeding after the menopause
- Persistent bloating, feeling full more quickly or nausea
- A persistent itch, lump or changes to the vulval skin or vagina
- Unexplained lower back, abdominal or pelvic pain.
Find out more information on each of the five gynae cancers and how to spot them below:
Womb cancer
Key information on womb cancer (also called uterine or endometrial cancer)- from the symptoms, risk factors and how it is diagnosed and treated.
Ovarian cancer
Key information on ovarian cancer- from the symptoms, risk factors and how it is diagnosed and treated.
Cervical cancer
Key information on cervical cancer- from how to try prevent it, the symptoms, risk factors and how it is diagnosed and treated.
Vulval cancer
Key information on vulval cancer- from the signs and symptoms, risk factors and how it is diagnosed and treated.
Vaginal cancer
Key information on vaginal cancer- from the signs and symptoms, risk factors and how it is diagnosed and treated.
Information for trans and non-binary people
If you are trans, non-binary, or intersex, you may still be at risk of some gynaecological cancers if you have a womb, cervix, ovaries, fallopian tubes, vagina, or vulva.
Speak to an Ask Eve Nurse
If you would like any further information, our Ask Eve nurse service is here to help. You can get in touch for free and confidential information on nurse@eveappeal.org.uk or 0808 802 0019.
Real stories
Abi’s story
“Cancer and treatment side effects will not control who I am”. Abi writes about her diagnosis of cervical cancer and treatment.
Sbba’s story
“Cancer is the journey no one wants to take”. Sbba blogs about her ovarian cancer diagnosis, the importance of symptom awareness and her hopes for earlier detection for Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.
Helen’s story
“It is so important to know what things look and feel like and to know your normal”. Helen shares her experience of her vulval cancer diagnosis.
Mandy’s story
“My consultant said, “you’ll be back at work in 2 weeks””. Mandy reflects on her cervical cancer diagnosis and treatment nine years ago.
Shalisha’s story
“I always say, if it don’t feel right, get it checked out”. Shalisha writes about her experience of ovarian cancer.
Gemma’s story
“I was told that I was too young for womb cancer”. Gemma reflects on how tracking her periods helped her monitor changes and get help.
Carly’s story
“Finding out you carry these alterations comes with its own grief and big decisions”. Carly shares her story of having a BRCA gene alteration, and both her and her sister’s cancer journeys.