10 cancer symptoms women shouldn't ignore

If you’re a relatively healthy young woman, cancer might not evn be on your radar yet. But it should be, regardless of your age or family history.

Why? Because each year, more than 375,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with breast cancer or ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Another 106,000 are diagnosed with gynecologic cancers, such as endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer or cervical cancer.  And while most of these cancers occur in women after menopause, gynecologic cancers can strike women at any age.

"Your risk for all types of cancer rises as you get older," says Therese Bevers, M.D., medical director of the Lyda Hill Cancer Prevention Center.

Why it's important to stay alert

The signs of gynecologic cancers can be vague and very similar to those of other conditions. Only breast cancer and cervical cancer can be detected through screening.

So, it's important to recognize cancer symptoms and talk about them quickly with your gynecologist or primary care doctor. This can increase your odds of finding cancer early, when it’s most treatable.

Here are 10 potential cancer symptoms that every woman should be aware of.

1. Abnormal vaginal bleeding.

More than 90% of women diagnosed with endometrial cancer experience irregular vaginal bleeding. It's also one of the most common symptoms of cervical cancer. So, see a doctor if you experience any of the following:

• Before menopause: bleeding between periods or bleeding during or after sex 
• After menopause: any bleeding at all, including spotting  

2. Changes in your breasts  

Most palpable breast cancers are detected by women themselves during routine daily activities, such as bathing, shaving or even scratching. So, practice breast self-awareness and be alert for any lumps in your breast or armpit. Also be on the lookout for any unusual discharge, changes in your breasts’ appearance or skin texture, and abnormalities of the nipple, such as retraction or scaling. 

3. Unexplained weight loss  

Talk to your doctor if you suddenly lose more than 10 pounds without changing your diet or exercise habits. 

4. Bloody vaginal discharge  

Bloody, dark or smelly vaginal discharge is usually a sign of infection. But sometimes, it’s a warning sign of cervical, vaginal or endometrial cancer. 

5. Constant fatigue  

A busy week can wear anyone out. But in most cases, a little rest should cure your fatigue. See a doctor if your fatigue is becoming severe or constant, especially if it’s interfering with your work or leisure activities. 

6. Loss of appetite or feeling full all the time  

Appetite changes can be symptoms of both ovarian cancer and cancers unrelated to the reproductive system. If you notice you’re eating a lot less than usual but still feeling full quickly, talk to a doctor.  

7. Persistent indigestion or nausea  

Usually, persistent indigestion and nausea are related to conditions like stomach ulcers or acid reflux. But sometimes, these can signal a gynecologic cancer. Play it safe, and see a doctor if you feel queasy more often than usual. 

8. Pain in the pelvis or abdominal area  

Ongoing abdominal pain or discomfort — including gas, indigestion, pressure, bloating and cramps — are usually due to gastrointestinal issues. They can be caused by normal hormonal fluctuations during your menstrual cycle, too. But sometimes, they are a sign of ovarian or endometrial cancer. So, see a doctor if yours lasts for more than two weeks. 

9. Frequent urination or pelvic pressure

Suddenly need to urinate all the time or feeling constant pressure on your bladder? Odds are, you’ve got a urinary tract infection. But if your doctor has already ruled that out, you’re not pregnant, and you haven’t been drinking more fluids, this could be a sign of a gynecologic cancer. 

10. Changes in your bowel habits  

If you start noticing changes in the size, shape or frequency of your bowel movements, don’t just dismiss them. These could be a sign of a tumor pressing on the colon and distorting your stool. Talk to your doctor if you start experiencing diarrhea or constipation when you never have before, too. 

Having one or more of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you have cancer. But it’s important to get them checked out, if you notice them. 

“Most cancers are asymptomatic at their earliest stages,” notes Bevers. “So, be sure to get any screenings available at the recommended intervals, and mention any symptoms you might be having to your doctor — especially if they last more than two weeks.” 

Request an appointment at MD Anderson online or call 1-877-632-6789.