Caring for someone diagnosed with endometrial cancer can be an overwhelming experience. As a caregiver, you may find yourself navigating a complex landscape of emotions, medical decisions, and daily responsibilities. This journey is not just about managing treatments; it’s also about providing emotional support and understanding the challenges that come with this diagnosis. Below we summarize what endometrial cancer is, how it is commonly diagnosed and treated, and practical ways to support your loved one through this difficult time.
Endometrial cancer (often called uterine cancer) begins in the lining of the uterus, the endometrium. It is the most common cancer of the female reproductive organs in the United States.
There are two broad categories to understand:
Several factors are associated with a higher risk of developing endometrial cancer:
Early detection is commonly prompted by symptoms. The most important warning sign is abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially any bleeding after menopause. Other possible signs include unusual vaginal discharge, pelvic pain or pressure, and pain during sex. Any abnormal bleeding or unusual postmenopausal spotting should prompt evaluation by a healthcare provider.
Diagnosis usually combines clinical history and tests. An endometrial biopsy (office sampling of the uterine lining) is the most commonly used and accurate initial diagnostic test; if biopsy is inconclusive or not possible, a D&C (dilation and curettage) may be performed to obtain tissue. Transvaginal ultrasound is often used to visualize the uterus and measure endometrial thickness, but ultrasound alone is not a screening test that reduces mortality—tissue sampling is required for diagnosis.
Treatment plans depend on cancer type, grade, and stage, as well as the patient’s overall health and fertility wishes.
Surgery is the main treatment for most people and typically includes removal of the uterus and often the fallopian tubes and ovaries (total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy).
Lymph node evaluation (by sentinel lymph node mapping or selective removal) may be done to stage disease and guide further treatment.
Radiation, chemotherapy, and hormone (progestin) therapy are additional options used depending on stage and tumor characteristics.
Fertility-sparing hormonal approaches (carefully selected cases) are sometimes an option for younger patients who wish to preserve fertility; these require close specialist follow-up.
Your role during treatment is vital. Practical ways to help include:
Cancer brings a heavy emotional load. Here are some ways to support emotionally:
Encourage your loved one to connect with others — local support groups, online communities, family and friends — and to use resources offered by cancer centers and national organizations. A gynecologic oncologist (a specialist in cancers of the female reproductive system) should be involved in care when possible, as they can guide complex treatment and fertility-preserving decisions.
Caring for someone with endometrial cancer involves medical advocacy, practical help, and emotional support. By understanding the disease, recognizing warning signs, staying involved in care decisions, and helping manage day-to-day needs, caregivers can make a substantial difference in their loved one’s experience and outcomes.
If family history or early age at diagnosis is present, consider discussing genetic counseling for Lynch syndrome with the medical team. For specialist resources and support, reach out to cancer centers and national organizations that focus on gynecologic cancers.