Mr Damian McKay
Gynaecological Cancer
Gynaecological cancer refers to cancers that affect the female reproductive system, including the ovaries, uterus, cervix, vagina, and vulva.
How can I access Kingsbridge Cancer Diagnostics Clinic and what is the pathway?
Accessing Kingsbridge Diagnostics Clinic couldn’t be easier. Our step by step guide below explains the pathway from initial point of contact to an onward referral if required:
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Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
The symptoms of cervical cancer aren’t always obvious and there may not be any symptoms at all, until it has reached an advanced stage.
Women between the ages of 25-40 are encouraged to attend regular smear screening to monitor any changes in the cells situated around the cervix. Any changes will be investigated and closely monitored by your doctor.
In most cases, vaginal bleeding is the first noticeable symptom of cervical cancer. It usually occurs after intercourse
Bleeding at any other time, other than your expected monthly period, is also considered unusual. This includes bleeding after the menopause (when a woman’s monthly periods stop).
Other symptoms of cervical cancer may include pain and discomfort during sex and an unpleasant smelling vaginal discharge.
If the cancer spreads out of your cervix and into surrounding tissue and organs, it can trigger a range of other symptoms, including:
- constipation
- blood in your urine (haematuria)
- loss of bladder control (urinary incontinence)
- bone pain
- swelling of one of your legs
- severe pain in your side or back caused by swelling in your kidneys,
- changes to your bladder and bowel habits
- loss of appetite
- weight loss
- tiredness and a lack of energy
It is important to visit a medical professional for advice if you experience any of the symptoms above or additional symptoms which you consider to be unusual. Do not wait. Make an appointment today.
If you have had an abnormal smear result then we can treat you at our Colposcopy Clinic.
Symptoms of Womb Cancer
Cancer of the womb (uterus) is a common cancer that affects the female reproductive system. It’s also called uterine cancer and endometrial cancer.
The most common symptom of womb cancer is abnormal bleeding from the vagina, although abnormal bleeding can occur for a number of reasons and does not always signify cancer.
Bleeding may start as light bleeding, which may get heavier over time. Most women diagnosed with womb cancer have been through the menopause, so any vaginal bleeding will be unusual and warrants further investigation.
In women who haven’t been through the menopause, unusual vaginal bleeding may consist of:
- periods that are heavier than usual
- vaginal bleeding in between normal periods
Less common symptoms include pain in the lower abdomen (tummy) and pain during sex.
If womb cancer reaches a more advanced stage, it may cause additional symptoms. These include:
- pain in the back, legs, or pelvis
- loss of appetite
- tiredness
- nausea
As mentioned, if you experience any of the above it is important that you seek medical help. Early diagnosis could save your life.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be difficult to recognise, particularly in its early stages. This is because they are often the same as symptoms of other less serious conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS).
There are additional symptoms which appear to be more prevalent in women with ovarian cancer, which include;
- increased abdominal size and persistent bloating (not bloating that comes and goes)
- persistent pelvic and abdominal pain
- difficulty eating and feeling full quickly, or feeling nauseous
Other symptoms, such as back pain, needing to pass urine more frequently than usual, and pain during sex may be the result of other conditions in the pelvic area. However, they may be present in some women with ovarian cancer.
As ovarian cancer can be hard to detect, it is important to investigate any new symptoms which might persist over several weeks. Seeking the advice of a medical professional is the recommended course of action should you feel concerned about any symptoms you might be experiencing.
Please note our cancer diagnostic service initially requires a GP appointment. This is priced at £149 for a 30 minute face-to-face appointment. Should you be referred for additional tests, screening or scans then additional costs will be incurred. You will be advised of these costs prior to any further appointments being made.