A 58-year-old woman from Canterbury is sharing her life-changing experience to raise awareness about the importance of recognising abnormal bleeding as a potential symptom of uterine cancer. Dawn Willis, like many women, initially assumed her postmenopausal bleeding was a normal part of menopause. However, it turned out to be a warning sign of something far more serious.
For nearly a year, Dawn ignored her symptoms, believing they were linked to hormonal changes. “So much happens to your body during menopause that I thought the bleeding was normal,” she explained in an Instagram post. But as time went on, her belly started to swell, and her family urged her to seek medical help. That decision ultimately saved her life.
Doctors diagnosed her with womb cancer (endometrial cancer), one of the most common cancers affecting postmenopausal women. If left untreated, it can spread to other organs and become life-threatening. “I’m so angry with myself for ignoring it,” Dawn admitted. “If I had waited even a few more months, I don’t think I’d be here today.”
Menopause vs. cancer symptoms: Knowing the difference
According to Dr Rubina Shanawaz Z, Senior Consultant in Uro-Gynaecology, Gynaec-Oncology, and Robotic Surgery at Fortis Hospital, the symptoms of menopause and womb cancer can sometimes overlap, “making diagnosis challenging.”
“Menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood changes, tend to be intermittent, whereas cancer symptoms are persistent and often worsen over time,” she explains.
Common warning signs of cancer in menopausal women include:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding (especially after menopause)
- Unusual discharge that may be watery or bloody
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Bloating or abdominal swelling
- Frequent urination or difficulty urinating
- Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or loss of appetite
Dr Shanawaz emphasises the importance of paying attention to persistent symptoms and seeking medical advice. “Many women assume postmenopausal bleeding is harmless, but it’s always worth getting checked. Early detection and diagnosis significantly improve cancer treatment outcomes.”
Regular health check-ups, awareness of family medical history, and open discussions with a healthcare provider can make a crucial difference in catching womb cancer at an early stage. Dawn’s message is clear: don’t ignore unusual bleeding—your life may depend on it.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
