What is It and When Is It?

Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month in the UK is held every September. This awareness month aims to increase an understanding of the five types of gynaecological cancers that an individual can be diagnosed with.

The aim of the awareness month is to encourage early detection through education and awareness campaigns.

Why It Matters?

In the UK, around 22,050 people are diagnosed annually with some form of gynaecological cancer. This figure equates to around 60 diagnoses per day. Tragically, approximately 21 women die each day from these cancers.

Despite the significant number of those diagnosed, awareness of this cancer remains low: with only 41% of women having heard of vulval cancer, and 79% having never checked for it.

The Five Types of Gynaecological Cancers are:

• Ovarian
• Cervical
• Womb (Uterine)
• Vaginal
• Vulval

Key Symptoms to Watch For:

• The symptoms vary, but common red-flag signs include:
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding (post-menopause or between periods)
• Persistent bloating
• Pelvic or abdominal pain
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Pain during sex
• Changes in urinary or bowel habits
• Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, vulval itching, or lumps

For example, it is reported that less than half of women would consult a doctor about post-menopausal bleeding or bleeding between periods, and only a third would seek help for pain during sex. Similarly, it is noted that nearly one in three women delay GP visits due to embarrassment.

Early Detection Saves Lives

There is no routine screening for most gynaecological cancers, with only the cervix benefitting from regular smear tests. As with most cancers, early-stage diagnosis dramatically improves survival outcomes; with stage-1 gynaecological cancer survival rates ranging between 75% and 95%.

Calls for Change:

Research shows that only 20% of women know that bloating may be a symptom of ovarian cancer, and just 1% are aware that frequent urination could signal it.

Government-supported initiatives like the ovarian cancer audit in England and Wales are positive steps, but continued investment in awareness is essential. NHS treatment delays are continuing to increase and therefore, Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month serves as a critical reminder that increased awareness, education, and open conversation around women’s health are essential.

If you feel that you or a loved one have experienced a delay in a diagnosis of gynaecological cancer and have suffered a worse prognosis as a result, please contact our experienced medical negligence team on 01482 323697 to discuss how we may be able to help.