Uterine cancer is a general term that describes cancer in your uterus:
Uterine cancer can refer to either endometrial cancer or uterine sarcoma. But people often consider the terms “endometrial cancer” and “uterine cancer” the same. That’s because endometrial cancer makes up about 95% of all cases of uterine cancer. A diagnosis of uterine sarcoma is rare.
The uterus is part of the women's reproductive system, and people are assigned female at birth (AFAB). It’s where a fetus develops during pregnancy.
The top part of your uterus is called the body or corpus. At the end of your uterus is your cervix, which connects your uterus to your vagina. Uterine cancer refers to cancer in the body of your uterus. Cancer in your cervix — cervical cancer — is a different type of cancer.
The endometrium is the inner layer of your uterus. It changes during your menstrual cycle.
Hormones called estrogen and progesterone cause the endometrium to thicken in case of pregnancy. If no pregnancy occurs, your body produces less progesterone, which causes the endometrial lining to shed. That’s when periods take place.
Uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in the lining of the uterus (endometrium).
Common risk factors include obesity, hormonal factors (such as estrogen therapy without progesterone), a history of certain medical conditions (like diabetes and polycystic ovarian syndrome), and a family history of uterine or colorectal cancer.
Symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding (especially postmenopausal bleeding), pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and an enlarged uterus.
