Endometrial Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Kovvuru Bhaskar Reddy , Oncologists
Table of Contents
Endometrial cancer is a form of cancer that begins in the endometrium, which is in the inner lining of the uterus. It is the most common cancer of the female reproductive system and usually occurs after menopause but younger women can also be affected. The disease develops when the cells in the lining of the uterus grow uncontrollably and form a tumour.
Most women with endometrial cancer notice abnormal vaginal bleeding as the earliest sign, mainly after menopause. Early detection is very important for the successful treatment and long-term survival. According to medical studies, endometrial cancer can be diagnosed at an early stage and it is one of the more treatable gynecologic cancers.
What are the Types of Endometrial Cancer?
Endometrial Cancer is classified based on the type of cells involved and the biological behavior of the tumor.
Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma
This is the most common type, accounting for the majority of cases. It is often associated with excess estrogen exposure and generally has a favorable prognosis when detected early.
- Most common type
- Often linked to estrogen exposure
- Usually has a good prognosis when treated early
Non-Endometrioid Endometrial Cancer
This group includes serous carcinoma, clear cell carcinoma, carcinosarcoma, and other aggressive subtypes that are more likely to spread beyond the uterus.
- Less common but more aggressive
- Higher risk of recurrence
- Often requires more intensive treatment
What are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Endometrial Cancer?
Endometrial Cancer develops due to genetic changes that cause uncontrolled growth of endometrial cells. Prolonged exposure to estrogen without the balancing effect of progesterone increases the risk of developing the disease.
Maintaining a healthy weight and managing hormonal and metabolic conditions may help reduce the risk.
Causes
- Genetic mutations in endometrial cells
- Prolonged exposure to estrogen without progesterone
- Endometrial hyperplasia
- Inherited genetic syndromes such as Lynch syndrome
Risk Factors
- Age over 50 years
- Obesity
- Diabetes mellitus
- High blood pressure
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Never having been pregnant
- Late menopause or early menstruation
- Family history of endometrial or colorectal cancer
- Long-term tamoxifen therapy
When to See a Doctor for Endometrial Cancer?
Women with abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause, unusual vaginal discharge, or persistent pelvic pain should consult a Gynecologist or Oncologist promptly.
You should see a doctor if you experience:
- Bleeding after menopause
- Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
- Persistent pelvic pain or abnormal vaginal discharge
Seek immediate medical attention if you:
- Develop heavy vaginal bleeding causing dizziness or fainting
- Experience severe pelvic pain with significant bleeding
- Notice rapidly worsening symptoms or signs of advanced cancer
These symptoms may indicate significant bleeding or advanced disease requiring urgent medical evaluation.
Find Oncologists for Endometrial Cancer Treatment Near You
- Doctor for Endometrial Cancer in Hyderabad - Hitech City
- Doctor for Endometrial Cancer in Hyderabad - Financial District
- Doctor for Endometrial Cancer in Secunderabad
- Doctor for Endometrial Cancer in Bengaluru
- Doctor for Endometrial Cancer in Navi Mumbai
- Doctor for Endometrial Cancer in Pune
- Doctor for Endometrial Cancer in Vizag
How is Endometrial Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves pelvic examination, imaging studies, and tissue sampling to confirm the presence of cancer and determine its stage.
Early diagnosis helps guide appropriate treatment and improves long-term survival.
Diagnostic Methods
- Medical history and pelvic examination
- Transvaginal ultrasound
- Endometrial biopsy
- Hysteroscopy with biopsy when indicated
- Dilation and curettage (D and C) in selected cases
- Computed Tomography (CT) scan, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), or PET scan for staging
- Blood tests and routine preoperative evaluation
What are the Treatment Options for Endometrial Cancer?
Treatment depends on the stage, grade, tumor type, and the individual's overall health. A multidisciplinary team develops a personalized treatment plan.
Most early-stage cancers are successfully treated with surgery.
Surgical Treatment
- Total hysterectomy
- Removal of both ovaries and fallopian tubes (bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy)
- Pelvic and para-aortic lymph node assessment when indicated
- Minimally invasive surgery for eligible patients
Additional Treatment
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Hormone therapy for selected hormone-sensitive tumors
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy for eligible advanced or recurrent cases
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What is the Recovery Process for Endometrial Cancer?
Recovery depends on the stage of the cancer, the type of treatment received, and the individual's overall health. Many women recover well after early-stage surgery, while advanced cases may require prolonged treatment and monitoring. Regular follow-up is essential to detect recurrence and manage long-term effects of therapy.
Attending scheduled follow-up appointments, completing all recommended treatments, maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active as advised, reporting new symptoms promptly, and following survivorship care recommendations help improve long-term health and quality of life.
Recovery Includes
- Following postoperative recovery instructions
- Completing chemotherapy or radiation therapy when prescribed
- Attending regular gynecologic oncology follow-up visits
- Maintaining a healthy diet and regular physical activity
- Monitoring for abnormal bleeding or new pelvic symptoms
- Receiving emotional and supportive care when needed
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is endometrial cancer?
Endometrial cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus. It is the most common cancer of the female reproductive system and usually occurs after menopause
2. Is endometrial cancer hereditary?
Yes. Women with a family history of endometrial or colorectal cancer may have a higher risk, especially if they carry certain genetic syndromes like Lynch syndrome.
3. Can endometrial cancer return after treatment?
Yes. Recurrence can happen, particularly within the first few years after treatment. Regular follow-ups are important to detect it early.
4. Does hormone replacement therapy (HRT) increase the risk of endometrial cancer?
Yes. Prolonged use of estrogen-only HRT may raise the risk, especially in women who still have their uterus.
5. Can endometrial cancer affect younger women?
Although most cases occur after menopause, younger women in their 30s and 40s can develop the condition, especially with risk factors like obesity or PCOS.