What treatments are there for Uterine Cancer?
The effectiveness and available treatment options for womb cancer rely on the stage of the cancer and its extent of spread. Fortunately, the majority of womb cancer cases are detected early, leading to successful treatment outcomes. The primary goal of all treatments is to eliminate or eradicate the abnormal cells.
Surgery
The most frequently employed treatment for womb cancer is surgical removal of the womb, known as a
hysterectomy. In many cases, the procedure also involves the removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries, referred to as hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Following the hysterectomy, additional treatment may not be necessary. For further details on this surgical procedure, please refer to our dedicated fact sheet on hysterectomy.
Further treatment
If the womb cancer has spread or if it is an aggressive form of the disease, additional treatment may be necessary to target any remaining cancer cells after surgery. However, if the cancer was detected early, these supplementary treatments may not be required.The following treatment options may be considered:
Chemotherapy: This involves a course of drugs designed to kill any remaining cancer cells and inhibit the growth of new ones. The drugs can be administered orally as tablets, more commonly through intravenous injection, and sometimes directly into the abdomen.
Radiotherapy: While less frequently used than chemotherapy, radiotherapy employs high-energy X-rays to destroy any remaining cancer cells. It is highly targeted to minimize damage to surrounding healthy cells.
Hormone Therapy: The hormone progesterone may be utilized to prevent the growth of cancer in other areas of the body.
It is important to note that cancer treatments can result in unpleasant side effects such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and hair loss. It is crucial to discuss these potential side effects with your consultant prior to making a decision about treatment. Coping with cancer can be challenging both physically and emotionally, and the support of your family and friends will be invaluable. There are numerous organizations that provide support and can connect you with other women who have experienced similar circumstances. A list of these organizations is provided at the end of this fact sheet.
Fertility considerations
Womb cancer typically affects women after menopause. However, in rare cases, women may require treatment while still of childbearing age. If a hysterectomy is performed, it will result in infertility. If you desire to have children, hormone therapy might be an option to control the growth of the cancer without resorting to a hysterectomy. However, it is important to be aware that there is a possibility of cancer recurrence. It is essential to discuss your individual situation and fertility desires with your consultant to make informed decisions.