Uterine Cancer Treatment Chicagoland

Uterine cancer begins in the lining of the uterus, the hollow, pear-shaped organ in a woman’s pelvis where a baby grows during pregnancy. Uterine cancer usually occurs in women older than 50. The good news is that it is usually cured when it is found early. And most of the time, the cancer is found in its earliest stage, before it has spread outside the uterus.

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF UTERINE CANCER?

There are two main types of uterine cancer, which develop in different parts of the uterus.

• Endometrial cancer develops in the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium. This is the most common type of uterine cancer, accounting for more than 95 percent of cases.
• Uterine sarcoma is a rare type of uterine cancer. It forms in the muscles or other tissues of the uterus.

WHO IS AT RISK FOR UTERINE CANCER?

There are several risk factors for uterine cancer, and many of them relate to the balance between progesterone and estrogen in the body. These risk factors vary from patient to patient, including:

• Family history: Some parents pass on genetic mutations for hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer. This inherited condition raises the risk of endometrial cancer.
• Age: The likelihood of developing uterine cancer increases as women get older.
• Obesity: Some hormones within the body are subject to change to estrogen by fat tissue, raising the risk of uterine cancer.
• Late menopause: Similarly, if menopause occurs after age 50, the risk also increases as there are increased levels of estrogen for longer periods of time.
• Diabetes: Typically, type 2 diabetes, often related to obesity, is a huge risk factor for cancer.
• Not getting pregnant: Patients who haven’t been pregnant have a higher risk because of the increased exposure to estrogen.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN SYMPTOMS OF UTERINE CANCER?

Signs of uterine cancer vary from patient to patient. This is especially true if there are other conditions affecting reproductive organs aswell. If you notice leaking, bleeding, or unusual pain, talk to your healthcare provider at the Women’s Health Center in Chicagoland. With our services, we will be able to provide an accurate diagnosis of your condition and design the right treatment plan for you.

• Lower abdominal pain or cramping just below your belly.
• Vaginal bleeding between periods before menopause.
• Extremely prolonged, heavy, or frequent vaginal bleeding.
• Thin white or clear vaginal discharge if you’re postmenopausal.

HOW IS UTERINE CANCER DIAGNOSED?

Uterine cancer may not cause any symptoms in the early stages. Some women may visit their doctor after experiencing abnormal bleeding or discharge. The following tests are often the first step in making a uterine cancer diagnosis:

• Pelvic Exam – doctor manually examines the abdomen and pelvic area for any nodules or bumps. Diagnostic Ultrasound Imaging might be suggested for further investigation.
• Hysteroscopy Exam – doctor, uses a special lighted microscope, called a hysteroscope, to examine the uterus and identify areas for biopsy.
• Endometrial biopsy – a sample of cells is removed from inside the uterus and sent to the laboratory for examination under a microscope. This procedure is typically performed in a doctor’s office.
• Dilation & Curettage (D&C) – when biopsy results are unclear, your doctor may perform a dilation and curettage (D&C). During a D&C, your doctor scrapes tissue from the lining of the uterus. You are usually asleep for this procedure.

CONTACT WOMEN’S AID CENTER FOR UTERINE CANCER TREATMENT IN CHICAGOLAND

Whether you have the symptoms that we mentioned above or want to ensure you are completely healthy, schedule a consultation with our clinic today. Our professional and board-certified specialists will ensure that you are thoroughly examined and should you show signs of uterine cancer, provide an in-depth diagnosis and treatment plan. Contact us today.

Last Updated on December 7, 2022 by G