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Key takeaways
Gynaecological cancers affect female reproductive organs and genitals. They include:
- uterine cancer (cancer of the uterus)
- cervical cancer
- fallopian tube cancer
- ovarian cancer
- vaginal cancer
- vulval cancer.
Key takeaways
Gynaecological cancers affect female reproductive organs and genitals. They include:
- uterine cancer (cancer of the uterus)
- cervical cancer
- fallopian tube cancer
- ovarian cancer
- vaginal cancer
- vulval cancer.
Gynaecological tests and procedures for cancer diagnosis
Specialists use various tests and procedures to help diagnose gynaecological cancers. For example:
- physical examinations
- blood tests
- biopsies
- imaging scans
- cervical screening test
- colposcopy.
Cervical screening test
The cervical screening test checks your cervix for human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is the main cause of cervical cancer. It is also associated with vulval and vaginal cancers.
Learn more about the cervical screening test
Colposcopy
A colposcopy is a procedure to examine the cervix, vagina or vulva to look for changed or abnormal cells.
A colposcope is a special microscope that magnifies the cells of your cervix, vulva or vagina.
You might need a colposcopy if you have:
- abnormal results from a cervical screening test
- unusual or unexplained bleeding from your vagina
- an abnormal lump or growth on your cervix, vagina or vulva.
Before you have a colposcopy, you need to tell the doctor:
- if you have any allergies, especially to iodine
- if you are (or may be) pregnant.
You’ll need to reschedule if you have your period on the day of your appointment.
A colposcopy takes about 15 to 20 minutes. The doctor will explain the procedure before they start. When you’re ready, the doctor will:
- ask you to take off your clothes from the waist down and sit on the examination bed with your legs on the rests and your waist covered by a sheet
- insert a plastic or metal instrument (speculum) into your vagina – this opens your vaginal walls so your cervix can be seen
- position the colposcope between your legs (it doesn’t go into the vagina)
- apply a fluid (acetic acid, iodine or both) to the cervix to show any abnormal cells
- look through the colposcope to see your cervix, the pattern of abnormal cells and where they’re located
- take a small sample of cells (biopsy) for testing if needed.
Most women don’t experience any pain during a colposcopy, although there may be some discomfort from having the speculum inside your vagina. Try to relax so the doctor can see your cervix more easily.
If the doctor takes a sample of cells, you may have some mild period-like cramps afterwards. You can take some over-the-counter pain-relief medicine if needed.
You should be able to do normal activities after a colposcopy.
It’s normal to have some light bleeding (spotting) for at least 2 days after the procedure.
The fluid used during the procedure may also change the colour of your discharge for one to 2 days. It’s a good idea to use a sanitary pad after the procedure.
If you had a biopsy, avoid swimming, baths and spas for 2 weeks. It’s okay to have showers. Also don’t use tampons or have vaginal sex for 2 weeks. This will reduce the risk of bleeding or infection.
If you have concerning symptoms after your colposcopy, talk to your doctor.
After the procedure your doctor will discuss how it went and the follow-up plan. If you had a biopsy, it may take up to 2 weeks to get the results.
When to see your doctor about gynaecological cancer
It’s important to see your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms that could be gynaecological cancer. In most cases, early detection and diagnosis lead to good outcomes.
Uterine cancer (cancer of the uterus)
Uterine cancer is a common gynaecological cancer that occurs when abnormal cells grow in the lining or muscle of the uterus, most often affecting women over 50. This page explains the symptoms to watch for, possible causes, how uterine cancer is diagnosed, and the treatment options available, highlighting the importance of early detection.
Fallopian tube cancer
Fallopian tube cancer is a rare cancer that affects one or both fallopian tubes and is more common after menopause. This page outlines possible symptoms, causes, how the cancer is diagnosed, and treatment options, and explains why early detection is important.
Ovarian cancer
Ovarian cancer can develop in one or both ovaries and is often hard to detect early because symptoms can be subtle. This page explains the main types of ovarian cancer, common symptoms, how it’s diagnosed, and available treatment options, highlighting the importance of early medical review.
Vaginal cancer
Vaginal cancer is a rare gynaecological cancer that most often affects people over 60, though it can occur at any age. This page explains possible symptoms, causes, how vaginal cancer is diagnosed, and the treatment options available, highlighting the importance of early medical review.
Vulval cancer
Vulval cancer can affect any part of the vulva and is more common after menopause, though it can occur at any age. This page outlines common symptoms, possible causes, how vulval cancer is diagnosed, and available treatments, emphasising the importance of early medical review.
Cervical cancer
Cervical cancer develops in the cervix and is usually caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), with regular screening preventing most cases. This page explains cervical screening, symptoms to watch for, causes, and treatment options, and highlights the importance of early detection and prevention.
Personal stories about gynaecological cancers
Review process
Our review process
This information has been reviewed by clinical experts and is based on the latest evidence.
Our content review process ensures our health information is accurate, trustworthy, current and useful.
We regularly check our information to make sure it reflects the latest clinical guidelines and key findings from large, reliable studies.
Where possible, we focus on Australian research to make our information more relevant locally.
Experts play a key role in reviewing our content. Clinicians at Jean Hailes check information for accuracy and real‑world relevance. These include GPs, gynaecologists, endocrinologists, psychologists and allied health professionals.
We also work with partner organisations, independent specialists and people with lived experience to make sure our content reflects both expert knowledge and the experiences of the community.
