What are gynaecological cancers?
Gynaecological cancers are cancers that develop in a woman’s reproductive organs, including the cervix, ovaries, uterus (womb), vulva, and vagina. While cervical cancer is the most widely recognised—often linked to HPV—each type of gynaecological cancer has distinct symptoms, risk factors, and treatment pathways. Early detection is crucial, as many gynaecological cancers are highly treatable when diagnosed promptly.
Why is early diagnosis so important?
In all cases, early diagnosis is key. Many gynaecological cancers are highly treatable when caught early which is why regular assessment is very important. Recognising the signs of gynaecological cancer, and acting on them, can make a significant difference to health outcomes.
There are five main types of gynaecological cancer: cervical, ovarian, uterine (womb), vulval, and vaginal cancer. Cervical cancer is often linked to HPV and can be detected early through regular screening through smears and HPV tests.
Ovarian cancer can be harder to diagnose, with symptoms like bloating or pelvic pain, while uterine cancer is the most common type and often presents with postmenopausal bleeding. Vulval and vaginal cancers are rarer but may cause itching, pain, or skin changes. Each type has distinct symptoms, but all should be investigated promptly.
The London Gynaecology Gynaecological Cancer Service
At London Gynaecology, we provide expert, compassionate care with speed and convenience. Our daily clinics and multiple central London locations ensure rapid access to assessment and treatment, when timing matters most.
We work in partnership with world-leading cancer centres, including The London Clinic, home to the award-winning Duchess of Devonshire Wing, one of the most advanced cancer centres in the UK. These partnerships allow us to offer seamless access to cutting-edge diagnostics, treatments and surgical facilities in centres recognised for excellence in cancer care.
Our team includes highly skilled consultant gynaecologists and gynaecological oncologists, many of whom have held senior leadership roles in major NHS teaching hospitals. They are recognised as leaders in their field, delivering expert, compassionate care throughout your diagnostic and treatment journey.
Causes vary by type. Risk factors may include age, family history, certain genetic mutations (such as BRCA), HPV infection, obesity, hormone replacement therapy, and lifestyle factors. Often, no single cause is identified.
Abnormal bleeding (especially after sex or between periods), postmenopausal bleeding, persistent bloating, pelvic pain, new discharge, or changes in vulval skin should be assessed by a specialist promptly.
Staging describes how far the cancer has spread. It helps determine treatment options and prognosis. Staging typically ranges from Stage 1 (localised) to Stage 4 (spread to distant organs)
Yes. Many gynaecological cancers, especially when diagnosed early, are highly treatable. Treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or a combination of approaches tailored to your individual case.
While not all cases can be prevented, regular cervical screening (smear tests), HPV vaccination, maintaining a healthy weight, and recognising symptoms early can reduce risk or support early detection.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. Certain high-risk strains of HPV are the leading cause of cervical cancer and may also contribute to vaginal and vulval cancers.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as unusual vaginal bleeding (especially after menopause or between periods), persistent pelvic or abdominal pain, bloating, changes in discharge, or discomfort during sex, it’s important not to ignore them.
While these symptoms can often be caused by non-cancerous conditions, they should always be assessed by a specialist. Early evaluation means that if there is anything serious, it can be detected and treated promptly, and if not, you’ll have peace of mind.
You can book an appointment directly with one of our consultants without a referral. We offer daily clinics across London with rapid access to investigations such as ultrasound scans and diagnostic procedures. If further treatment is needed, we ensure a smooth and supportive onward care pathway with leading cancer centres.
The WID-easy test saves many patients from having to undergo invasive surgery to diagnose whether cancer is the cause of the bleeding. It assists in assessing the urgency of treatment and identifying the appropriate type of treatment needed. WID-easy helps you make informed decisions about your next steps in care, while helping you avoid unnecessary invasive procedures.
- Accurate – results have shown unnecessary follow-up procedures to be reduced by over 90% without missing cancers.
- Rapid – it has been designed for quick analysis, providing fast results within days.
- Simple – the cervical and vaginal swab sample collection is minimally invasive.
WID-easy can be used alongside other diagnostic procedures such as transvaginal ultrasounds however it should be conducted before applying lubricant and taking samples for tests like a PAP smear. It can also simplify diagnosis for women with fibroids or a high BMI.
You can book a consultation with any menopause GPs and ask if you qualify for a WID-Easy Test. Charges to consultation and the test will apply*. Book here
Book your appointment online
If you are concerned about symptoms and in need of reassurance, book with one of our consultants today.
Our Cancer Promise
At London Gynaecology, we understand that time is critical when it comes to cancer care. We are committed to delivering personalised, expert-led care with urgency, supported by a multidisciplinary team working together to ensure the best possible outcomes, as quickly as possible.
Rapid Access for New Appointments
Patients with symptoms or a confirmed diagnosis of cancer will be offered an appointment on the next working day. Where appropriate, diagnostic tests such as blood tests, imaging, or biopsies can be carried out on the same day.
Fast Track Investigations
If further investigations are required following your appointment, these will be organised immediately and completed within 7 days. Our goal is to minimise waiting and provide answers without delay.
Our Treatment Pledge
If treatment is needed, we will ensure it begins within 2 weeks of completing your investigations — helping you move from diagnosis to care with speed and confidence.
About your consultation
We understand a visit to discuss concerning symptoms will likely be an anxious time. Our healthcare assistant (HCA) team will be on hand to support you throughout your visit. During your consultation, a full medical history will be taken, your consultant may carry out a pelvic examination, with a chaperone present. An ultrasound scan may also be performed at this time.
Your consultant will discuss whether any further investigations, such as imaging or a hysteroscopy, are needed and arrange for these as necessary. Any additional tests will be fully discussed with you during your consultation. Your consultant will fully discuss the plan for follow up.
GP Referrals
GP referral letters are not needed unless you are claiming your visit on insurance and your insurer requires one. However, GP referral letters are helpful because they provide your information and history so if you do have one please bring it with you to your appointment.
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Gynaecological Oncology FAQs
Vulval Cancer
The vulva is the external part of the female genitalia, and although vulval cancer is rare, it is important to recognise and treat it early. Some...
Vaginal Cancer
Vaginal cancer is the rarest of the gynaecological cancers and is diagnosed in 250-300 women a year in the UK, with over 70% of diagnoses in...
Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, the reproductive organs that produce eggs and hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone. It...
Endometrial Cancer
Known as womb cancer or cancer of the lining of the uterus. The lifetime risk of a getting endometrial cancer is 1 in 100 (1%) and...
Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer arises from the cervix, the lower part of the uterus connecting to the vagina. In the UK, approximately 3,200 women are diagnosed with cervical...