Although some do give a very clear positive indication that there is a problem, sometimes they are not very reliable and cause more worry and harm than good. For example, the cervical cancer screening programme is currently facing strong criticism from some experts who say it is not the best way to pick up the problem. However, an understanding of cancer of the womb and how it usually causes problems will help you be vigilant for symptoms, which you can then get checked out as early as possible. Also an awareness of the risk factors for endometrial cancer will help you to do what you can to reduce the risk. Occasionally tumours form in other tissues of the womb such as the muscle cells in the walls but these are rare.
Endometrial cancer occurs most often in the two decades after the menopause and is rare before it.
The lining may be generally affected by cancer cells or more localised polyps may form. As the tumour is very soft and friable it is easily damaged, leading to vaginal bleeding at an early stage. This means the cancer is usually discovered quite quickly before it has had a chance to spread. Bleeding is the major symptom. Later on there may be abdominal pain and swelling, or lumps in the abdomen and groin.