An early stage is assigned by excluding the more advanced stage. Some cases that are obviously in an advanced stage by physical examination will not benefit from surgery and can be treated without operative staging. Those that are at an early stage will be operated first with removal of the uterus, tubes and ovaries, to confirm the stage. If there is only limited invasion into the wall of the uterus and the grade is good, i.e. grade I or II, then the surgery will be sufficient and no radiation will be recommended. If of higher stage and grade then radiation to the pelvis will often be advised.
Some doctors prefer to give radiation prior to surgery but that is becoming less prevalent.
Advanced stages are treated by radiation if possible, or chemotherapy. Fortunately, progesterone, which has few side effects, is a good chemotherapeutic. Other types of chemotherapy have limited effectiveness but are often used and can give an initially good response. Most patients will be in an early stage when diagnosed and there will be several options for treatment. Often these are elderly women who may have other medical problems.