September is Gynecologic Cancers Awareness Month.
Gynecological cancers include any cancers that involve the reproductive organs of a woman. Each year our nation has 109,000 new diagnoses of gynecologic cancers in women. About 33,000 women die each year from these cancers.
When caught early, many of these cancers can be treated. Becoming familiar with the types of cancers and their symptoms can help you be conscious of changes in your own body, and may save your life.
Types of Gynecologic Cancers
Cervical cancer: The cervix, the lowest part of the uterus, connects the vagina and uterus. Cervical cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in the cervix. This gynecological cancer can be prevented through screenings and vaccinations. A PAP smear can detect cervical cancer or pre-cancer.
Cervical cancer is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and other factors such as smoking. Your risk for cervical cancer increases as you increase the number of sexual partners you have.
Cervical cancer does not usually have outward symptoms at the onset or early stages of cancer. Regular checkups and pelvic exams are the best defense against cervical cancer since screenings can catch the cancer early.
Symptoms, later on, can include pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, bleeding after intercourse, and vaginal discharge or odor that is abnormal.
Cervical cancer can be treated through surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination of those treatments.
Uterine cancer: Unlike cervical cancer, there is no easy screening to find uterine cancer. The uterus, or womb, can develop two types of cancer. Endometrial cancer is the most common uterine cancer. The endometrium is the inner lining of the uterus that is shed each month during menstruation.
Abnormal vaginal bleeding is a symptom of endometrial cancer. This cancer is most common in postmenopausal women, so it is often diagnosed quickly because of the bleeding.
The second type of uterine cancer is uterine sarcoma. This cancer forms in the uterine muscles. It is much more rare but also much more aggressive.
Your risk for uterine cancer increases with age. Obesity, Type 2 Diabetes, taking estrogen supplements, and radiation in the pelvic region all increase the risk of uterine cancers.
The treatment for uterine cancer will depend on the type of cancer, the location of the cancer, the grade of the tumor, and whether or not it has started spreading to other parts of your body.
Ovarian cancer: One out of every 17 women will develop ovarian cancer in her lifetime. Unfortunately, 85% of those will be caught in later stages.
The symptoms might not sound alarming at first, which could be why most cases are caught so late. They include:
- Frequent urination
- Abdominal bloating
- Weight loss
- Constipation
- Feeling full quickly (even when eating only a small amount)
- Pelvic discomfort
- Back pain
- Fatigue
A previous diagnosis of endometriosis increases your risk for ovarian cancer. Age, obesity, never being pregnant, hormone replacement therapy, and a family history of ovarian cancer also increase your risk.
Vaginal cancer: The vagina, or birth canal, connects the uterus to the outer genitalia. Cancer in the vaginal lining is the rarest of gynecological cancers. The early stages of vaginal cancer are asymptomatic. Once symptoms do begin to express themselves, common symptoms include pain, watery discharge, abnormal vaginal bleeding, and a lump or mass in the vagina.
Vaginal cancer can be found during a routine pelvic exam. Surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy are the treatment options for vaginal cancer. Vaginal cancer can be prevented with HPV vaccinations.
Vulvar cancer: The vulva encompasses the inner and outer labia lips, the vaginal opening, vaginal glands, and the clitoris. Self-examination and routine gynecologic pelvic examinations can help catch vulvar cancers early. A biopsy is recommended for any suspicious change in the vulva.
The symptoms of vulvar cancer include:
- Discoloration or changes to the coloring of the vulva
- An open sore that does not heal
- Lumps, possibly with wart-like surfaces
- Pain
- Itching that does not stop
- Growths that are cauliflower-like, similar to genital warts
- An ulcer in the genital area
Racial Disparities in Gynecological Cancers
As a Black woman, you should be prepared to advocate strongly for yourself when it comes to your gynecological healthcare.
Even though Black women are less likely than white women to develop endometrial cancer, Black women are twice as likely to die from it. The more aggressive forms of endometrial cancer are more common in Black women.
Ultrasounds are sometimes used to screen for uterine cancer, but they are not as effective in Black women. If uterine cancer is a concern for you, request a biopsy to help you diagnose it or rule it out.
Studies have supported the fact that doctors care for Black women and our pain differently. Knowing that can help you advocate for yourself, your health, and your wellbeing. Your pain deserves to be addressed as much as anyone else's.
When to Call the Doctor
If you experience any bleeding when you shouldn't, whether it be a pad's worth or just a few drops, let your gynecologist know. If you experience pain in your abdomen or pelvic area, reach out to a doctor. If you notice changes in your discharge, cycle, or outer genitalia, inform your doctor.
At LNO Greek, we started designing our customized Delta Sigma Theta apparel to help our sisters look and feel good. We’re all about helping women be their best selves–and a big part of that is self care. All of these cancers are treated more effectively the earlier they are caught. Stay in tune with your body, and stay healthy–and remind your sisters to do the same.