Signs and Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer

There are symptoms that may point to endometrial cancer. Some are more common as the cancer becomes advanced (grows and spreads).

Common symptoms of endometrial cancer

• Unusual vaginal bleeding
• Vaginal spotting
• Other vaginal discharge

Abnormal vaginal bleeding is the most common symptom of  endometrial cancer. This might be a change in periods, bleeding between periods, or bleeding after menopause. Non-cancer problems can also cause abnormal bleeding. But it's important to have a doctor check out any irregular bleeding right away.

For those who have gone through menopause, it’s especially important to report any vaginal bleeding, spotting, or abnormal discharge to your doctor. Non-bloody vaginal discharge may also be a sign of endometrial cancer. Even if you can't see blood in the discharge, it doesn't mean there's no cancer. Any abnormal discharge should be checked out by a doctor.

Signs of later-stage endometrial cancer

• Pelvic discomfort
• Weight loss

Pain or a feeling of fullness in the pelvis and losing weight without trying can also be symptoms of endometrial cancer. These symptoms are more common in later stages of the disease.  A delay in seeking medical help may allow the disease to worsen and lower the chance of treatment being successful.

Although any of these signs or symptoms can be caused by things other than cancer, it’s important to have them checked out by a doctor.