Learn about uterine (womb) cancer: its signs, risk factors, advanced diagnostic methods, and comprehensive treatment options. Early detection saves lives.

Womb cancer, also known as uterine cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in the uterus, most often in the inner lining called the endometrium. It is a common gynecological condition that primarily affects women after menopause. According to the World Cancer Research Fund, uterine malignancy is the 15th most common cancer in women globally. It is also the 6th most frequently encountered malignancy among females. 

In this blog, we provide an overview of uterine womb (uterine) cancer symptoms, how it is diagnosed, available treatment options, and why early detection is essential for better outcomes.

What is Uterine Cancer?

Uterine cancer is a type of gynecological cancer caused by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the uterus. It can affect women of all backgrounds but is most commonly seen in postmenopausal women over the age of 50. In some cases, the cancer may spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes, lungs, liver, brain, or abdominal lining (peritoneum).

When detected early, uterine cancer is often treatable with favorable outcomes. Many patients choose to undergo womb cancer treatment in Turkey, where advanced diagnostic tools and modern therapies are widely available.

Types of Uterine Cancer

The two frequent types of womb cancer are:

• Endometrial Cancer: It originates in the inner or endometrial lining of the uterus. It is a common type of uterine cancer.
• Uterine Sarcoma: It originates in the muscle layer (myometrium) or the supporting tissues of the uterus. It is rare and highly aggressive.

Symptoms of Uterine Cancer

The symptoms of uterine (womb) cancer can vary depending on the stage of the disease. Most patients are diagnosed after noticing certain warning signs, especially postmenopausal bleeding.

Common Symptoms

The most frequent symptoms include:

• Postmenopausal vaginal bleeding

• Abnormal or watery vaginal discharge

• A heavy or persistent discomfort in the pelvic area

• Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)

• Difficulty or pain during urination (dysuria)

Any woman over the age of 50 experiencing unexpected vaginal bleeding should be evaluated for womb cancer, as this symptom carries a high risk index.

Less Common Symptoms

Some patients may also report more general or subtle signs, such as:

• Unexplained fatigue or weight loss

• Persistent bloating

• Pain in the lower back or limbs

• Blood in urine or stool

If any of these symptoms persist, it’s important to consult a gynecologist or oncology specialist. Early evaluation helps improve treatment outcomes.

Risk Factors for Uterine Cancer

Several factors can increase a woman's risk of developing uterine (womb) cancer. In Turkey, individuals presenting with the following conditions or histories are typically advised to undergo further evaluation:

• Atypical or abnormal endometrial hyperplasia

• Age 50 or older

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

• Never having been pregnant

• Early onset of menstruation

• Late menopause

• Use of medications like Tamoxifen

• Hormone replacement therapy

• Family history of uterine, ovarian, or colorectal cancer

• Obesity, diabetes, or high blood pressure

Medical experts in Turkey, especially at Medical Park Hospitals, maintain a high level of clinical awareness for these risk factors, particularly in postmenopausal women. Many international patients choose to undergo expert evaluation for womb cancer in Istanbul and other major cities in Turkey, where modern healthcare infrastructure, advanced diagnostic technologies, and highly experienced specialists are readily accessible.

Diagnosing Uterine Cancer

Early and accurate diagnosis plays a crucial role in improving uterine cancer outcomes. In Turkey, patients have access to a wide range of diagnostic tools and expert care. The standard evaluation process typically includes the following steps:

Physical Examination

Diagnosis begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination by a trained healthcare professional, focusing on symptoms and risk factors.

Pelvic Ultrasound

A pelvic ultrasound provides detailed images of the uterus and surrounding structures, helping detect abnormalities such as thickened endometrium or masses.

Endometrial Biopsy

This test involves collecting a small tissue sample from the uterine lining to examine for abnormal or precancerous cells. It is one of the most important tools for diagnosing uterine cancer.

Hysteroscopy with Biopsy

Hysteroscopy procedure uses a thin, lighted instrument (hysteroscope) inserted into the uterus to directly visualize the uterine cavity and take targeted biopsies for further testing.

Blood and Urine Tests

Laboratory tests may help detect secondary signs of disease, such as anemia from blood loss, impaired kidney function, or elevated tumor markers.

Advanced Imaging (CT, MRI, PET Scans)

Many patients choose Istanbul for uterine cancer diagnosis due to the accessibility and affordability of advanced imaging technologies. CT, MRI, and PET scans are essential for assessing tumor size, depth of invasion, lymph node involvement, and distant spread.

Understanding Your Diagnosis

At Medical Park Hospitals in Turkey, patients receive personalized consultations with experienced specialists who carefully explain the results of diagnostic tests, including advanced imaging like PET scans. Key factors such as the type of uterine cancer, its stage, and grade are thoroughly reviewed to develop an effective treatment plan. Whether the cancer is localized or has spread to other parts of the body significantly influences the choice of therapy.

Thanks to the availability of cutting-edge treatments and multidisciplinary care teams in cities like Istanbul, patients have access to comprehensive options tailored to their diagnosis. Early detection combined with advanced medical care greatly improves the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

Treatment Options for Uterine Cancer

For uterine cancer treatment in Turkey, a range of treatment options is available. The exact approach depends on the type, stage, and grade of the cancer and is determined together with a team of experienced physicians to create a personalized care plan.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is often the primary treatment and may involve a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and sometimes lymph nodes).

Patients seeking surgical options for womb cancer can learn more about specialized procedures on our Gynecologic Oncology page.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is commonly used alongside surgery to eliminate remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. Brachytherapy, a form of internal radiation, is frequently employed for targeted treatment.

Hormone Therapy

For hormone-sensitive tumors, hormone therapy can be effective in early or advanced stages by blocking hormones that fuel cancer growth.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to destroy cancer cells and is typically recommended for advanced or metastatic uterine cancer.

Immunotherapy

Patients with specific genetic markers such as MSI (microsatellite instability) or dMMR (deficient mismatch repair) may benefit from immunotherapy. This treatment strengthens the immune system’s ability to identify and attack cancer cells. Immune checkpoint inhibitors like pembrolizumab are examples used.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapies focus on specific genetic or protein markers present in cancer cells. Drugs like Lenvatinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, selectively destroy these cells while sparing healthy tissue.

Palliative Care

For patients requiring symptom relief, palliative care provides comprehensive support, including pain management, symptom control, and psychological assistance, improving quality of life throughout treatment.

The Uterine Cancer Treatment Team

In Turkey, uterine cancer patients are cared for by a multidisciplinary team of specialists to ensure comprehensive treatment and support. This team typically includes:

• Gynecologic, medical, and radiation oncologists

• Radiologists

• Pathologists

• Oncology nursing staff

• Palliative care specialists

• Nutritionists

• Psychologists

At Medical Park Hospitals, these expert and certified teams are renowned for delivering exceptional care to both local and international patients. With over 2,500 dedicated staff members, a combined capacity of 5,300 beds, and 210 state-of-the-art operating rooms, Medical Park brings more than 25 years of healthcare excellence. Patient well-being and satisfaction remain the highest priorities throughout every stage of treatment.

For more information on personalized cancer care and multidisciplinary approaches, visit our page on oncology treatment in Turkey.

Prevention and Screening

The guidelines for preventing uterine cancer in Turkey are consistent with global recommendations. While early diagnosis greatly improves prognosis, awareness of risk factors and timely medical evaluation are key.

Is There a Screening Program?

Currently, there is no formal screening program specifically for uterine cancer. However, any woman over 50 who experiences vaginal bleeding (especially after menopause) should undergo a thorough medical evaluation without delay.

Minimizing Risk Factors

To reduce the risk of uterine cancer and improve outcomes, women are advised to:

• Maintain a healthy and stable weight

• Manage chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, PCOS, and endometrial hyperplasia effectively

• Seek genetic counseling if there is a family history of uterine or related cancers

• Stay physically active with regular exercise

• Use hormone therapy only under strict medical supervision

Patients seeking gynecological care in Istanbul are provided with detailed guidance on prevention and screening protocols at Medical Park Hospitals, helping them take proactive steps toward health and early detection.

Prognosis of Uterine Cancer

In Turkey, physicians assess the prognosis of uterine cancer based on several key factors, including the type of tumor, its grade, stage, and whether it has spread beyond the uterus.

For early-stage uterine cancer, the outlook is highly favorable: 5-year survival rates range from 80% to 90% when the disease is detected and treated promptly. However, the prognosis becomes more guarded in cases of advanced or recurrent cancer, particularly for aggressive subtypes such as uterine sarcoma.

With access to expert care and modern treatment options for uterine cancer in Turkey, many patients benefit from timely intervention and improved outcomes.

This content was developed by the MedicalPark Editorial Board and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider for personalized care.