The uterus, unique to women, comprises the outer myometrium and the inner endometrium. Positioned low in the abdomen between the bladder and rectum, it’s tethered by muscle and linked to the vagina via the cervix. Predominantly, uterine cancers originate in the endometrium, known as endometrial carcinomas. Alternatively, they may begin in the muscle or supportive connective tissue, termed uterine sarcomas, which include endometrial stromal sarcoma, Mullerian sarcoma, and leiomyosarcoma, albeit rare.
Factors like age (particularly over 60), postmenopausal status, endometrial hyperplasia, early onset of menstruation, infertility, obesity, family history of certain cancers, ovarian tumors, and estrogen hormone replacement without progesterone are associated with heightened risk. However, some individuals develop uterine cancer without these factors.
Symptoms typically include abnormal vaginal bleeding, notably postmenopausal, and occasionally watery discharge with an unpleasant odor. While such symptoms might have other causes, consulting a doctor promptly is crucial for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment, minimizing potential complications.