Cervical cancer is the most preventable gynaecological cancer, thanks to the HPV test, which forms part of the national cervical screening program. However, ovarian cancer and vulvar cancer are often not detected until they have spread, making them more difficult to treat. Endometrial cancer is the most common gynaecological cancer and its numbers of new diagnoses in Australia are still rising.
Cherish Women’s Cancer Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to raising awareness and funding for research into gynaecological cancers, wants women to know and understand some of the most common myths about these cancers to help women be more aware in future.
“There are many myths about gynaecological cancers that can prevent women from getting the early detection and treatment they need,” said Cherish Women’s Cancer Foundation Founder, Professor Andreas Obermair. “We want to set the record straight and help women understand the facts.”
The main myths surrounding gynaecological cancers include:
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Gynaecological cancer only affects older women.
While it predominantly affects women after menopause, gynaecological cancer can also develop in young women.
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There are no symptoms (it’s a silent killer).
Many women experience early symptoms but these symptoms are unspecific and therefore often ignored. Symptoms can include: irregular bleeding, continual abdominal pressure or bloating, vaginal discharge, changes in bowel or urinary habits, and changes to the vulva.
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The PAP smear picks up all types of gynaecological cancer.
The HPV test (formerly called PAP test) checks the cells of the cervix, identifying abnormalities that could develop into cancer. It does not test for any of the other gynaecological cancers.
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People with gynaecological cancer are promiscuous.
Cervical cancer is the only cancer caused by HPV, which the majority of people who have been sexually active at least once in their life, carry. All other gynaecological cancers you can also get if you’re a virgin.
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You can’t get gynaecological cancer after a hysterectomy.
A hysterectomy (surgical removal of the womb) does not prevent cancer developing in other parts of a woman’s reproductive system.
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Today, survival rates for gynaecological cancer are high.
While the detection and treatment of gynaecological cancer have improved, the survival rates are lower than that of breast cancer. While survival rates of ovarian cancer seem to improve slightly, survival rates of patients diagnosed with endometrial cancer are on a downwards trend.
“We encourage women to talk to their doctor about their risk of developing gynaecological cancer,” said Professor Obermair. “Early detection and treatment are essential for improving outcomes for women with these cancers.”
