Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month
September is Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month, an opportunity to shine a light on the experiences of people affected by gynaecological cancer, increase understanding and awareness, and highlight the support available throughout the cancer care journey.
Gynaecological cancers have a significant impact on people across Australia. In 2025, an estimated 7,047 new cases of gynaecological cancer were diagnosed, with approximately 2,300 deaths attributed to these cancers. Around 1 in 23 females in Australia is estimated to be diagnosed with a gynaecological cancer by the age of 85. Encouragingly, five-year relative survival has improved over time, increasing from 63% in 1987–1991 to 71% for people diagnosed between 2017 and 2021.
From recognising symptoms and navigating treatment to managing ongoing physical effects and adjusting to life after cancer, everyone’s experience is different. Raising awareness can encourage people to seek medical advice when something doesn’t feel right, while helping those affected by gynaecological cancer understand that support is available throughout treatment and recovery. Together, increased awareness, early recognition of symptoms, appropriate investigation, effective treatment and ongoing support can help improve outcomes and quality of life for people affected by gynaecological cancer.
What is Gynaecological Cancer?
Gynaecological cancer encompasses several different cancers that affect the reproductive system and surrounding tissues. There are eight types of gynaecological cancer, depending on where it develops:
- Ovarian cancer – develops in the ovaries, which produce eggs and reproductive hormones
- Uterine cancer – develops in the uterus, with endometrial cancer being the most common type
- Cervical cancer – develops in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina
- Vulval cancer – develops in the vulva, the external female genital area
- Vaginal cancer – develops in the vagina, the muscular canal connecting the cervix to the external genital area
- Cancer of the fallopian tubes – develops in the fallopian tubes, which connect the ovaries to the uterus
- Peritoneal cancer – develops in the peritoneum, the lining of the abdomen and pelvis. Primary peritoneal cancer can have similarities to ovarian and fallopian tube cancers
- Cancer of the placenta– develops from abnormal cells associated with pregnancy, usually originating from tissue that would normally develop into the placenta
While these cancers affect different parts of the reproductive system, some symptoms and risk factors can overlap. Understanding the different types of gynaecological cancer can help improve awareness and encourage people to seek medical advice about persistent or unusual changes.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of gynaecological cancer can vary, and some may also be associated with conditions unrelated to cancer.
However, symptoms that should be investigated can include:
- Unusual or persistent vaginal bleeding
- Bleeding after sex
- Vaginal bleeding after menopause
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Persistent pelvic or abdominal pain
- Bloating or abdominal swelling
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Persistent vulval itching, irritation or skin changes
- A lump, ulcer or other change around the vulva
- Unexplained weight loss
- Ongoing fatigue
- Changes in appetite or feeling full quickly
Some gynaecological cancers, particularly ovarian cancer, can have vague symptoms that may be easy to attribute to other causes. You know your body best. If something is unusual for you, persistent or concerning, speak with your GP.
Can Gynaecological Cancer Be Prevented?
Not all gynaecological cancers can be prevented, but there are ways to reduce the risk of some cancers and detect certain cancers or precancerous changes early. For example, HPV vaccination and cervical screening play an important role in reducing the risk of cervical cancer.
Regular cervical screening is recommended in Australia for eligible people and can detect HPV infections and cervical cell changes that may require monitoring or treatment. Other risk factors vary considerably between cancer types. Individual risk can be influenced by factors such as age, genetics, family history, hormonal factors, previous HPV infection and other health or reproductive factors.
Gynaecological Cancer Treatment
Treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer and may involve one or more treatments, including:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapies
- Hormone therapy
- A combination of treatments
Cancer treatment is often highly individualised. The medical team formulate the most appropriate treatment plan based on diagnosis.
The Effects of Gynaecological Cancer Treatment
Cancer treatments can be life-saving and play a crucial role in treating and controlling cancer. However, treatment can also affect the body in ways that may continue during recovery or long after treatment has finished.
Depending on the type of cancer and treatment received, people can experience:
- Fatigue
- Reduced strength and fitness
- Pain or discomfort
- Scar tissue
- Changes in mobility
- Changes in bowel or bladder function
- Sexual health concerns
- Menopausal symptoms
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Radiation-related tissue changes
- Pelvic or abdominal swelling
- Lower limb lymphoedema
These effects can have a significant impact on daily activities, work, exercise, relationships and overall quality of life. Cancer rehabilitation can play an important role in supporting recovery, managing treatment-related side effects and helping people return to the activities that are important to them.
Lymphoedema After Gynaecological Cancer Treatment
A recognised and relatively common side effect of gynaecological cancer treatment is lymphoedema. Lymphoedema occurs when the lymphatic system is unable to adequately transport lymphatic fluid, resulting in an accumulation of fluid within the tissues.
Following gynaecological cancer treatment, lymphoedema may develop in the:
- Legs
- Feet and ankles
- Groin
- Pelvis
- Lower abdomen
- Genital region
The risk can be increased when treatment involves lymph node removal or radiation therapy. Importantly, lymphoedema does not always develop immediately after treatment. It can appear months or even years later which is why ongoing monitoring and awareness of changes are important. If you notice new swelling, heaviness, tightness or changes in the size or shape of any of the above region, it is worth seeking an assessment.
Cancer Rehabilitation: Supporting Recovery After Cancer Treatment
Recovery from gynaecological cancer is not always a straightforward process. You may have completed your cancer treatment but still be experiencing physical changes that affect how you move, exercise, work or participate in everyday activities.
Cancer rehabilitation aims to support your recovery and help you manage treatment-related side effects.
Depending on your individual needs, rehabilitation may include:
- Exercise prescription
- Strength and conditioning
- Fatigue management
- Lymphoedema assessment and management
- Compression therapy
- Scar management
- Manual lymphatic drainage
- Management of radiation-related tissue changes
- Mobility and functional rehabilitation
- Education and self-management strategies
Rehabilitation should be tailored to your diagnosis, treatment history, current symptoms and personal goals.
Key Takeaways
Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity to start conversations about symptoms, screening, treatment and life after cancer. If you notice persistent or unusual changes, don’t ignore them. Speak with your GP or healthcare team and seek appropriate assessment.
And if you have completed treatment but are still experiencing physical challenges, remember that support does not have to end when cancer treatment does.
At Hunter Rehab Hub, we provide rehabilitation services to support people throughout their recovery following cancer treatment, including assessment and management of lymphoedema and other treatment-related complications.
If you’re experiencing swelling, changes in movement, fatigue or other physical effects following gynaecological cancer treatment, speak with our team about how cancer rehabilitation may be able to support you.
References
Australian Gynaecological Cancer Foundation. (n.d.). Looking closely at the 8 gynaecological cancers.
Cancer Australia. (2025). Gynaecological cancer in Australia statistics. Australian Government.
Cancer Australia. (2024). What are the symptoms of gynaecological cancers? Australian Government.
Cancer Australia. (2024). Gynaecological cancers. Australian Government.
Cancer Australia. (2025). Gynaecological cancers fact sheet. Australian Government.
Disclaimer
This content is general in nature and provided for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individualised advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have concerns about your symptoms or health, consult a qualified healthcare professional.
