There are many wrong beliefs and misconceptions surrounding cancer. One of them is that cancer is a hereditary disease. There are many more such myths about cancer.
No matter what your age, you may develop cancer. This is more probable if the gene responsible for cancer is a faulty one.
There are a few cancers affecting only women. They are- vaginal cancer, endometrial cancer, and ovarian cancer. Another type of cancer which mostly occurs in females is breast cancer.
Regular cancer screenings are recommended but you can identify signs of this disease by yourself. Following 10 signs are vital in the identification of cancer in women-
1. Any Changes In Your Breast
Sometimes even mammography tests fail to detect breast cancer. If you find a knot-like thing or a lump in your breast, you shouldn’t ignore it.
Even if only one of the breasts feel sore or radiating heat or see redness and swelling, pay heed.
But one crucial symptom is when your breast size changes irregularly. If the skin of your breast puckers up, it is also a vital sign.
Also, if only 1 of your breasts is oozing out bloody or slightly clear secretions, it might be due to cancer.
2. Irregular Periods
If you’ve undergone menopause and yet you’re bleeding, it may be a sign of cancer. Also, if you bleed in between two consecutive periods, you should pay attention. Bleeding during copulation is also a bad sign.
A 2003 research paper in the American Journal Obstetrics and Gynecology specified that bleeding after menopause increases the risk of uterine cancer by 64 times.
3. Excessive Bloating
Periods, overeating and indigestion often lead to bloating. But if you have a bloated stomach for over 3 weeks straight, it may be a symptom of cancer.
The same journal published a study on this in 2001. It says seventy-one percent of the 168 women diagnosed for having ovarian cancer reported chronic bloating.
4. Pain In The Abdomen Or Pelvis Region
We commonly associate such pains with menstrual pain. But if you experience frequent pain in these 2 regions, it can be a sign of cancer. This is more so if the pain accompanies irregular menstrual cycles or bleeding in between 2 consecutive cycles.
A 2006 paper in the Cancer Journal suggests this.
5. Itchy And Bumpy Vag*na
Generally, the pimples on the vag*na are due to poor hygiene and tight underwear. But sometimes it may be a symptom of vaginal cancer.
Such a bump would be black or brown usually, but it may well be pink or red too. It can be anywhere near your clitoris.
6. You Are Not Hungry Often
This symptom in conjunction with any of the above signs is a reason enough to see a doctor like bloating. Ovarian cancer can affect metabolism.
A 2009 BMJ article showed that it is a highly reported symptom for ovarian cancer.
7. Hemoglobin Levels Are Low
It is a vital sign of endometrial cancer. It can cause disorder in blood clotting. The International Journal of Gynecological Cancer published a study related to this in 2001.
8. Don’t Take Obesity Lightly
Excess weight produces extra estrogen. This estrogen causes the cells of uterus to multiply uncontrollably, causing cancer. It is especially a risk factor for women with menopause.
9. Very Frequent Urinal Urges
Such urination along with pain and a burning feel may be an early cancer symptom. It is often ignored but it should be noted and a doctor should be consulted.
10. Vaginal Secretions Without Blood
The American Cancer Society said that about ten percent of uterine cancer associated with a non-bloody discharge. Non-bloody secretions can be a sign of endometrial cancer.
These are a few important signs that you shouldn’t ignore if you’re a woman. Remember, precaution is the best cure.
