Endometrial (Uterine) Cancer

You cannot control some things that put you at risk for endometrial cancer, such as a family history of endometrial or colon cancer.

But you can make personal choices that lower your risk of endometrial cancer.

• Strive for a healthy body weight. The body's fat cells make estrogen. For more information on controlling your weight, see the topic Reference Weight Management.
• Breast-feed if you are able. This decreases ovulation and estrogen activity.
• Get treatment for abnormal or unexpected bleeding. (Reference Endometrial hyperplasia Opens New Window, which may develop into endometrial cancer, is one cause of abnormal bleeding.) Heavy menstrual periods, bleeding between periods, and bleeding after menopause are symptoms of hyperplasia.
• Exercise regularly. It may help control your weight and may reduce estrogen levels.
• Eat a diet that is low in animal fats and high in fruits and vegetables.

You have no risk for endometrial cancer if you have had your uterus removed (hysterectomy).

If you take tamoxifen

Tamoxifen is a breast cancer treatment that acts like estrogen in the uterus.^{Reference 3} This can raise your risk of getting endometrial cancer.

If you are taking tamoxifen, keep taking it as directed by your doctor. But be sure to have a pelvic exam each year. The risk of endometrial cancer from tamoxifen is less than the risk of getting breast cancer again.

If you are worried about endometrial cancer risk, talk to your doctor. You might be able to use another medicine, instead of tamoxifen, for breast cancer.

© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.