Uterine Cancer

What is uterine cancer?

In the United States, approximately 42,000 women each year are diagnosed with uterine cancer - the most common malignancy of the female genital tract and the fourth most common cancer in women.¹ Uterine cancer forms in tissues of the uterus, which is a pear-shaped organ in the pelvis where a fetus grows (Figure 1). The cervix is at the lower, narrow end of the uterus, and leads to the vagina. Uterine cancer can appear in cells lining the uterus (endometrium) and in muscle or other tissues in the uterus (uterine sarcoma).²

Signs & Symptoms of Uterine Cancer

Possible signs of uterine cancer include unusual vaginal discharge or pain in the pelvis (uterus pain). Other conditions may cause the same symptoms. You should contact your health care provider if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Bleeding or discharge not related to menstruation (periods)
• Bleeding after menopause
• Irregular bleeding in between menstrual cycles or after sexual intercourse
• A mass in the vagina
• Frequent, difficult or painful urination
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Increasing or different pelvic pain or cramping
• A thin white (or pink) watery discharge from the vagina
• Increased pelvic pressure, particularly if associated with changes in bladder or bowel patterns

Tests that examine the uterus are used to detect and diagnose uterine cancer. Some of the tests that may be performed include a physical exam and history; a pelvic exam; a Pap test (or Pap smear); colposcopy (looking at the cervix with a microscope), cervical biopsy, endometrial biopsy, ultrasound, dilation & curettage (D&C) and hysteroscopy.

1. Jemal A, Siegal R, Ward E, Murray T, Xu J, Smigal C, et al. Cancer statistics, 2006. CA Cancer J Clin 2006;56;1006-30.
2. General Information About Uterine Sarcoma. National Cancer Institute. 2007. www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/treatment/uterinesarcoma/patient

While clinical studies support the effectiveness of the da Vinci^® System when used in minimally invasive surgery, individual results may vary. Surgery with the da Vinci Surgical System may not be appropriate for every individual. Always ask your doctor about all treatment options, as well as their risks and benefits.PN 871584 Rev. B 10/07

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