First published: Oct 10, 2021
Gynecologic cancer refers to any cancer that starts in the female reproductive system. This includes vaginal cancer, ovarian cancer, and vulvar cancer. However, the two most common forms are uterine cancer and cervical cancer. At first glance, it’s easy to confuse these two types. After all, the cervix and uterus are connected. But understanding how they differ is important in recognizing symptoms early and exploring the right treatment options.
At Immunity Therapy Center (ITC), we believe that knowledge empowers healing. If you or someone you love has been recently diagnosed, understanding whether it’s cervical cancer or uterine cancer (also known as endometrial cancer) can help you feel more informed and confident as you explore your treatment options. Let’s take a closer look at cervical cancer versus uterine cancer.
What Is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer begins in the cells of the cervix — the narrow passage that connects the uterus to the vagina. Like other cancers, it’s classified by the type of cell affected:
- Squamous cell carcinoma: About 90% of cervical cancer cases fall under this type. It starts in the thin, flat cells lining the cervix.
- Adenocarcinoma: This type starts in the glandular cells that produce mucus within the cervix.
- Mixed carcinoma (adenosquamous carcinoma): Rare cases involve both squamous and glandular cells.
While cervical cancer was once considered one of the deadliest cancers in the U.S., advancements in screening methods like Pap Smear tests and HPV tests have largely improved detection rates. Regular screening plays a vital role in catching this cancer early, often before any symptoms appear.
Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
In the early stages, cervical cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms, and it can be difficult to identify based on symptoms alone. If symptoms do appear, they’re often easy to mistake for other common conditions. Because of this, it’s essential to keep up with routine cervical cancer screenings for peace of mind.
Some of the most common signs and symptoms of cervical cancer include:
- Unusual vaginal discharge (which may contain blood)
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between periods, or after menopause
- Longer or heavier menstrual periods
- Painful sex
- General pain in the pelvis
In more advanced stages, cervical cancer may also present with:
- Swelling in the legs
- Blood in your urine
- General problems with bowel movements and urination
Causes and Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer
One of the most important things to understand about cervical cancer is its close link to HPV (human papillomavirus) infection. HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer. Other risk factors include:
- Smoking
- Weakened immune system
- Long-term use of birth control pills
- Multiple full-term pregnancies
Can Women with Cervical Cancer Get Pregnant?
Now, you may be wondering, “Can you get pregnant if you have cervical cancer?”,. The answer depends on several factors, including the cancer stage and treatment approach. Some treatments, like localized surgery that preserves the uterus, may still allow for future pregnancy. More advanced cases requiring a hysterectomy, however, will prevent pregnancy.
What Is Uterine Cancer?
Uterine cancer is a broader term for cancers affecting the uterus, the hollow organ above the cervix where a fetus grows during pregnancy. The most common type of uterine cancer is endometrial cancer, which begins in the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus.
Throughout a woman’s menstrual cycle, hormones like estrogen cause the endometrium to thicken in preparation for pregnancy. If pregnancy doesn’t occur, the lining is shed during menstruation. Unfortunately, this same lining can be where abnormal cell growth starts, leading to endometrial carcinoma.
Types of Uterine Cancer
Uterine cancer, often called endometrial cancer, starts in the endometrium — the lining of the uterus (womb). This is the most common type of uterine cancer. The two main types are:
- Endometrioid adenocarcinoma – The most common subtype, developing from the endometrial cells.
- Serous carcinoma – A less common but more aggressive form.
Symptoms of Uterine or Endometrial Cancer
Like cervical cancer, uterine cancer often develops silently. However, most women notice abnormal vaginal bleeding, a red flag that warrants immediate attention. Other symptoms may include:
- Bleeding between periods or after menopause
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- A palpable mass in the pelvic area
- Unintended weight loss
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, especially bleeding after menopause, it’s important to consult your doctor for a timely evaluation.
Can Women with Uterine Cancer Get Pregnant?
Just like those with cervical cancer, this is also a common concern for women diagnosed with uterine cancer. Because the uterus itself is directly affected, treatments often involve removing the uterus through surgery, a procedure called a hysterectomy, which makes pregnancy no longer possible. However, each diagnosis is different. If detected early, some women may explore fertility-preserving treatment options under close medical guidance.
What Is Endometrial Cancer?
Endometrial cancer is the most common form of uterine cancer and specifically affects the lining of the uterus. It develops when abnormal cells in the endometrium form a tumor that may grow and, in some cases, spread beyond the uterus.
Because of this, many patients ask: Are cervical cancer and endometrial cancer the same? The answer is no.
Cervical cancer and endometrial cancer are two different conditions, even though they both involve the female reproductive system. Clarifying whether cervical cancer is the same as endometrial cancer is important, since treatment approaches vary depending on the type and stage.
What Causes Cervical and Uterine Cancer?
Cancer in general results from genetic mutations that cause cells to grow uncontrollably. While the exact causes remain unclear, certain factors increase the risk:
- Cervical cancer is strongly linked to HPV (human papillomavirus) infection — a common sexually transmitted virus. However, not all HPV infections lead to cervical cancer, but persistent infection can increase this risk.
- Uterine cancer is often associated with hormonal imbalances, particularly excessive estrogen. Other risk factors include obesity, diabetes, advancing age (especially after menopause), and family history.
Diagnosing Cervical vs. Uterine Cancer
Early detection is essential to limit cancer spread and improve treatment outcomes. While the methods differ, both conditions can often be identified through targeted screening and imaging tests.
Cervical Cancer Detection and Diagnosis
- Pap tests and HPV testing to identify high-risk strains and abnormal cells
- Colposcopy and biopsy for closer examination
- Routine cervical screening often catches changes before symptoms appear
Uterine Cancer Detection and Diagnosis
- Pelvic exams and transvaginal ultrasound to visualize uterine thickness
- Endometrial biopsy to test tissue samples
- MRI, in some cases, is used to assess tumor growth and possible spread to lymph nodes
- Because there’s no standard screening test, abnormal bleeding is often the first clinical sign that leads to evaluation
While routine cervical screening helps detect cervical cancer early, uterine cancer doesn’t have a standard screening method. Fortunately, unusual bleeding often triggers investigation before it advances.
Comparing Treatment Approaches
While both cancers may be treated with surgery, their approaches differ based on the cancer’s location and stage:
Uterine Cancer Treatment
- Hysterectomy (removal of uterus, fallopian tubes, possibly ovaries)
- May result in early menopause and loss of fertility
- Other treatments – hormone therapy, chemotherapy, or radiation as needed
Cervical Cancer Treatment
- Hysterectomy (in advanced cases)
- Trachelectomy (removal of cervix while preserving the uterus)
- Localized removal of abnormal cells when possible
- Additional options – radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy
Treatment Options: A Natural Focus at ITC
Healing should support your whole body, not just focus on the disease itself. That’s why our alternative therapies are designed to strengthen your immune system and encourage your body’s natural healing abilities. While conventional treatments like surgery and chemotherapy aim to remove or destroy cancer cells, our approach focuses on supporting your health from within.
Depending on your unique needs, your care plan may include holistic therapies such as:
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Immunotherapy
Our natural immunotherapy cancer treatment is designed to help the body recognize and fight tumor cells while reducing the risk of cancer spread. By stimulating the immune system, these therapies can target abnormal cells without harming healthy tissues. This approach is especially valuable for patients managing cancerous lymph nodes or those with advanced conditions.
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IV Curcumin
Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. At ITC, Intravenous Curcumin is delivered directly into the bloodstream, ensuring higher absorption compared to oral supplements. This therapy may reduce pain, calm inflammation, and support cellular repair.
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Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which increases oxygen delivery to tissues. Cancer cells often thrive in low-oxygen environments, while healthy cells perform better with optimal oxygen levels.
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Rife Therapy
Rife Machine Therapy uses specific low-energy electromagnetic frequencies that are believed to disrupt the environment cancer cells need to grow. While still considered an alternative therapy, many patients find it beneficial as part of a holistic cancer care plan.
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Personalized Nutritional Care
At ITC, nutrition is viewed as a cornerstone of healing. Our personalized nutrition care plans are designed to provide patients with foods that help the body recover, reduce inflammation, and support immune balance. Diet recommendations may include foods that cleanse the blood, boost energy, and provide essential nutrients during treatment.
We customize each therapy plan to fit your diagnosis, stage, and health goals, offering a non-toxic approach that prioritizes your well-being.
Holistic Support for Cervical and Uterine Cancer at ITC
At Immunity Therapy Center, we understand how overwhelming a cancer diagnosis can feel. That’s why our approach prioritizes your comfort, well-being, and hope. We offer personalized, non-toxic therapies designed to work with your body, not against it.
From natural immunotherapy to alternative treatments like IV Curcumin, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, and Rife therapy, our goal is to support your immune system while minimizing harsh side effects. Our programs also address clinical needs such as managing pain, supporting lymph nodes, and helping limit spread with whole-body therapies. Every patient at ITC receives a treatment plan tailored to their needs, because we believe healing is personal.
If you’re facing cervical or uterine cancer, know that gentle, supportive care is possible. Contact Immunity Therapy Center to learn more about your natural treatment options and take the first step toward healing.
Written By: Dr. David Alvarez
Dr. David Alvarez is a Board Certified Medical Doctor from Universidad Xochicalco and Certified by the American Heart Association (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support).
Dr. Alvarez has been collaborating with Dr. Bautista as an Assistant Medical Director at the Immunity Therapy Center for over 6 years. He provides daily on site patient care and participates on the medical board on research and development of patient treatment plans and programs. Dr. Alvarez is a knowledgeable and compassionate Doctor committed to helping patients get to where they want to be health wise through a more holistic and comprehensive approach.
Sources:
- CDC. Gynecologic Cancer Incidence, United States—2012–2016. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/uscs/about/data-briefs/no11-gynecologic-cancer-incidence-UnitedStates-2012-2016.htm
- Cancer.org. What Is Cervical Cancer? https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cervical-cancer/about/what-is-cervical-cancer.html
- Cancer.org. Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Cancer. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cervical-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-symptoms.html
- Cancer.org. What Is Endometrial Cancer? https://www.cancer.org/cancer/endometrial-cancer/about/what-is-endometrial-cancer.html
- Cancer.org. Signs and Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/endometrial-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-and-symptoms.html
At Immunity Therapy Center, our goal is to provide objective, updated, and research-based information on all health-related topics. This article is based on scientific research and/or other scientific articles. All information has been fact-checked and reviewed by Dr. Carlos Bautista, a Board Certified Medical Doctor at Immunity Therapy Center. All information published on the site must undergo an extensive review process to ensure accuracy. This article contains trusted sources with all references hyperlinked for the reader's visibility.