How is womb cancer treated?

Treatment begins with confirming the diagnosis and understanding how far the cancer extends. An endometrial biopsy samples the womb lining, while a transvaginal ultrasound can show the womb and nearby structures. The main operation is often a hysterectomy, which removes the womb; the surgeon may also assess or remove nearby tissues and lymph nodes. A radical hysterectomy is a more extensive operation used in selected situations.

Radiotherapy may be given after surgery to treat an area where cancer cells could remain, or as a main treatment when surgery is unsuitable. Hormone treatment can be considered for cancers that respond to hormones, especially when preserving fertility or controlling disease is relevant. Chemotherapy may be used when disease is advanced or the risk of recurrence is significant.

Ask which tests define your stage and tumour grade, and whether the pathology report describes hormone receptors or other features that affect treatment. Discuss the effects of surgery on fertility, menopause, bladder and bowel function, and sexual wellbeing. If radiotherapy or medicines are recommended, ask how they fit with surgery and how side effects will be monitored. Persistent pelvic pain or bleeding after menopause should be assessed rather than self-diagnosed.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for bleeding after menopause, bleeding between periods, or persistent pelvic pain. After treatment, contact your care team urgently for heavy bleeding, fever, worsening pain, breathlessness, or a new swelling in a leg. Sudden severe symptoms need emergency care.

What is the stage and grade, and what does that mean for my plan? Would surgery remove the cancer completely, and what organs or lymph nodes might be involved? Which side effects should I report quickly? How will follow-up check for recurrence?