The symptoms of womb cancer every woman should be aware of

Womb cancer is also known as uterine cancer

The 58-year-old soapstar was diagnosed with the illness in 2015 but is now urging women to get checked if they're experiencing unusual symptoms.

Speaking about her diagnosis, she told The Mirror:

"I’d gone for a regular smear test - which had been clear - but I’d started having a lot of backache and then I began spotting blood, which wasn’t normal for me.

"I had been fitted with a coil to help with very heavy periods but somehow I just knew something didn’t feel right."

Cheryl was then referred for a biopsy and tests which discovered she had Stage 2 womb cancer.

She told the publication that the diagnosis was a total shock for her.

"I was stunned to the core. I couldn’t believe the doctor was talking about me," she admitted.

The actress had a full hysterectomy following the shock diagnosis.

In 2023, the actress was given the all-clear.

What are the symptoms of womb cancer?

Unfortunately, there is no national uterine cancer screening programme in Ireland.

However, anyone concerned about uterine (womb) cancer should seek advice from their GP immediately.

The key symptoms to look out for include:

• Bleeding after the menopause
• Bleeding between periods
• Heavier periods than normal
• Abnormal vaginal discharge that may have an odour and be dark pink or blood stained
• Pain in your lower abdomen or back of legs
• Discomfort or pain during sex