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Everything You Need to Know to Protect Yourself
Gynecological Cancers - How Do You Protect Yourself?
We want to make it simple for you – what should you be doing and how can you protect yourself?
Endometrial Cancer
Early Detection Saves Lives
Endometrial Cancer – How Can I Protect Myself?
Endometrial cancer starts in the cells lining the uterus. There are several risk factors to be aware of, as increased alertness could possibly help prevent the disease. The main risk factors include:
- Age
- Hormonal changes due to diabetes, obesity, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Additional years of menstruation, starting before age 12
- Few or no pregnancies
- Hormone replacement therapy for breast cancer
- Genetic syndromes, like Lynch syndrome, that increase the risk
- This type of cancer is often detected early because it presents clear clinical signs that are easy to recognize
Take a deep breath. Even if you meet one or more of these risk factors, it doesn’t necessarily mean you will develop endometrial cancer. However, there are symptoms and situations to watch for that can help you stay healthy for many years.
Our Recommendations:
- Be alert to symptoms – Common early symptoms include unusual vaginal bleeding between periods or after menopause, or abnormal discharge/spotting. If you’re postmenopausal and suddenly experience bleeding or spotting, or if you’re still menstruating and notice bleeding or spotting between cycles, heavy or prolonged bleeding, or anything unusual, consult your gynecologist.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle – Fat cells produce estrogen. Excess body fat increases estrogen levels, which can lead to hormonal imbalances where estrogen outweighs progesterone, raising the risk of endometrial cancer. Therefore, overweight women might be at higher risk.
- Family history – If a close relative had endometrial or colon cancer, consider asking your family doctor for a referral to a genetic counselor to be tested for Lynch syndrome (a simple blood test).
Cervical Cancer Can Be Prevented
Cervical Cancer – How Can I Protect Myself?
The primary risk factor for cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus (HPV). Additional risk factors include a weakened immune system, smoking, and age. This is one of the few cancers that can be almost entirely prevented!
- First thing’s first, get vaccinated against HPV! About 99% of cervical cancer cases result from prolonged infection with high-risk HPV strains. In Israel, a vaccine is available that effectively prevents infection by these strains. Click here to learn more about HPV.
- Undergo screening for precancerous cell changes with a Pap test – The Pap smear is a cervical screening test performed during routine gynecological exams. It checks for abnormal cells under a microscope to detect precancerous changes. In Israel, it is recommended for women aged 25 to 65 every three years.
In the past, the Pap test was the exam commonly performed in Israel. In the last decade however, doctors and scientists have developed an exam that identifies viral DNA more precisely. Today the cell collection process is similar to that of the Pap test, but the cells are initially sent to genetic testing instead of microscopic examination.
- HPV Typing Test – This PCR test detects high-risk HPV strains in the cells collected from your cervix. Identifying these strains helps assess the risk of developing precancerous changes.
Nowadays, the primary test involves screening for HPV DNA in cervical cells. If no viral DNA is found, no further testing is needed, and you continue regular follow-ups based on your age. If HPV is detected, a microscopic examination of the cells is conducted to check for precancerous changes. Depending on the results, additional tests may be recommended, or you might be asked to repeat the screening within a year.
It’s important to note that HPV can be transmitted by direct contact, including between males and females. Contraceptives do not fully prevent transmission! The virus also increases the risk of other cancers that can also affect males.
Ovarian Cancer - Knowledge is Power
And What About Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer has several risk factors, including:
- Age
- Genetic mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes
- Family history
- Obesity
Currently, there are no reliable screening tests for the early detection of ovarian cancer. So, what can you do?
Be aware of the symptoms:
- Persistent abdominal bloating
- Feeling full quickly or loss of appetite
- Unintentional weight loss
- Pelvic discomfort
- Chronic fatigue
- Back pain
- Changes in bowel habits, such as recurrent constipation
- Frequent urination
- Ascites (abdominal swelling due to fluid buildup), which can also cause shortness of breath
If you experience any of these symptoms, see your gynecologist.
- Family history – If a close relative had breast or ovarian cancer, or if you are aware of a genetic predisposition in your family, ask your family doctor for a referral to a genetic counselor and for a BRCA test (a simple blood test). There are preventive plans available for BRCA carriers.
In general, we recommend discussing risk reduction with your gynecologist.
Want to Learn More?
Listen to our podcast with “(Yareah Male) Fool Moon” and Prof. Zvi Vaknin, available on Spotify, Apple Music and Podcasts.
Have you been diagnosed? You’re not alone, feel free to reach out 050-7252703
We make every effort to provide evidence-based and reliable health information. We invest significant time and resources to ensure the information on our website is as accurate and up-to-date as possible, supported by scientific sources and aligned with current professional knowledge in relevant fields. However, the information in this website does not constitute medical advice or recommendations. We encourage anyone seeking personalized advice or recommendations on medical matters to consult directly with a licensed physician or a certified health professional in the relevant field.
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