Uterine cancer is the most common gynecologic cancer in the United States, with more than 65,000 people diagnosed each year. If you've been diagnosed with uterine or endometrial cancer, you deserve experienced care and access to the most advanced treatments available.

Penn Medicine treats more people with uterine and endometrial cancer than any other center in the region. This high volume means you will receive experienced care from a dedicated team of specialists.

What is uterine and endometrial cancer?

Uterine cancer is a disease in which cancer cells form in the tissues of the uterus (womb). There are two primary types of uterine cancer: endometrial cancer, which is more common, and uterine sarcoma, which is rare. The biggest difference between cancers that form in the uterus is in the type of cancer, not the location.

Types of uterine and endometrial cancer

• Endometrioid adenocarcinoma. This is the most common form of uterine and endometrial cancer. It forms in the glands of the endometrium and varies in severity.
• Uterine papillary serous carcinoma. This is an aggressive yet more rare form of uterine and endometrial cancer that forms in the lining of the uterus. It tends to return, even when caught early.
• Uterine clear cell carcinoma. This is an even more rare form, making up fewer than 5 percent of cases.
• Uterine carcinosarcoma. This is another rare yet typically more aggressive form of uterine and endometrial cancer. It makes up fewer than 5 percent of cases.
• Uterine sarcoma. Uterine sarcoma develops in the muscle wall of the uterus, also called the myometrium. Fewer than 10 percent of uterine cancer cases are uterine sarcoma. Uterine sarcomas are often more aggressive than other types of uterine cancer.

Abnormal or irregular vaginal bleeding is the most common sign of uterine cancer and its two major forms: endometrial cancer and uterine sarcoma. It is found in 75 to 90 percent of cases. Contact your gynecologist if you experience vaginal bleeding that occurs between menstrual periods or after menopause.

Symptoms of uterine cancer

You should also notify your gynecologist if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Pressure (a feeling of fullness) or pain in the pelvis (abdomen)
• Pain during sex
• A mass or growth in the vagina
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Constipation or difficulty urinating

These symptoms also can be caused by conditions other than uterine cancer. If you experience any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor to determine their cause and to begin a treatment plan that’s appropriate for you.

If you have been diagnosed with uterine or endometrial cancer, Penn Medicine offers the most advanced surgical and nonsurgical treatment options.