Clear, medically-reviewed information on the three gynaecological cancers that affect women most. Use this page to understand the basics — then speak to your doctor.
Important: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. If you have concerns about your health or symptoms, please consult a qualified healthcare professional without delay.
Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast tissue grow in an uncontrolled way. It can develop in the ducts (ductal carcinoma), the lobules (lobular carcinoma), or, rarely, in other tissues of the breast. It is by far the most common cancer in women, accounting for about 25% of all female cancers globally.
The good news: breast cancer is also one of the most treatable cancers when detected early. The 5-year survival rate at Stage I exceeds 99%. This is why early detection through regular mammography and self-examination is so important.
See a doctor promptly if you notice any of these:
Having risk factors does not mean you will develop cancer — but it is important to be aware:
Screening reminder: Women aged 40–74 should have a mammogram every 1–2 years. Women with a family history or genetic risk should begin earlier and may need additional MRI screening. Ask your doctor what is right for you.
Ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries — the reproductive glands that produce eggs and female hormones. Because the ovaries are deep within the abdominal cavity, symptoms are often vague and easy to attribute to other causes. This is why it is frequently diagnosed at a later stage.
There are several types: epithelial ovarian cancer (the most common, ~90% of cases), germ cell tumours, and stromal tumours. Treatment typically involves surgery combined with chemotherapy. When detected at Stage I, the 5-year survival rate is around 92%.
Persistent symptoms lasting more than a few weeks should be investigated:
No routine screening exists for ovarian cancer — this makes symptom awareness critical. If you have persistent symptoms for more than 2–3 weeks that are new and unusual for you, see your doctor. For high-risk women (BRCA carriers), transvaginal ultrasound and CA-125 blood tests may be offered.
Cervical cancer develops in the cells of the cervix — the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Nearly all cases (99%) are caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a very common sexually transmitted infection. Most HPV infections clear on their own, but in some cases they cause cellular changes that can become cancerous over time.
The cervical cancer story is one of medicine's great prevention successes: with the HPV vaccine and regular Pap smears, this cancer is almost entirely preventable. Countries with high vaccination and screening rates have seen incidence drop by over 90%.
Early cervical cancer often has no symptoms — this is why screening is essential. Signs that may appear include:
Vaccinated women still need screening. The HPV vaccine protects against the most dangerous strains but not all of them. Continue regular Pap smears even if vaccinated. The vaccine is most effective when given before first sexual contact but is still beneficial up to age 26 or beyond.
Information is the first step. Screening is the action. Find out which tests you need and when — our prevention guide tells you everything.
Prevention & Screening Guide →