Getting diagnosed
It can be hard for GPs to decide who may have cancer and who might have a more minor condition. For some symptoms, your doctor may ask you to wait to see if the symptoms get better or respond to treatment, such as antibiotics.
Your GP might arrange for you to have some tests first. This will help them decide if you need to see a specialist. Sometimes, they may not wait for the results before referring you to a specialist. They will also use their knowledge, skills and clinical judgement.
There are guidelines for GPs to help them decide who needs a referral. These vary slightly between the different UK nations. Your GP will use these guidelines as well as their own experience and judgement.
Your GP will consider any other symptoms you have, so do mention these. They might also take into account whether you have any risk factors that affect your chances of developing womb cancer.
Go to the risk and causes of womb cancer
Sometimes you might feel that your GP is not concerned enough about your symptoms. If you think they should be more concerned, print this page and the symptoms page. Ask your GP to explain why they don’t think you need a referral.
Contact your GP again if your symptoms don't get better or you notice any new or unusual symptoms.
If your GP has referred you, ask them when you should get your appointment. Contact them again if you don’t get one. Or some hospitals have a referral service you could try contacting if you know which hospital you are going to. Explain that you are waiting for an urgent suspected cancer referral.
Go to more information about an urgent referral, what to expect and questions to ask
Your hospital is working towards waiting time targets. For example, a target to find out whether you have cancer or not. And there are targets to start treatment if you are diagnosed with cancer. These are slightly different depending on where you live in the UK.
Last reviewed: 28 Feb 2024
Next review due: 28 Feb 2027
You should see your doctor if you notice a change that isn't normal for you. Or if you have any of the possible signs and symptoms of cancer.
You have a number of tests to check for womb cancer. The tests you might have include an ultrasound scan and a womb biopsy.
The most common symptom of womb cancer is abnormal bleeding from the vagina. This is especially in women who have stopped having periods (post menopausal women).
Screening means testing people for early stages of a disease. This is before they have any symptoms. There is no national screening programme for womb cancer in the UK.
The womb is the pear shaped muscular bag that holds a baby during pregnancy. Most womb cancers start in the lining of the womb. They are also called uterine or endometrial cancer.
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