Because the uterus, cervix, and ovaries are subject to similar hormonal influences, the cancers of these female organs can all be discussed as one main group of cancers. 

Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is at least in part a sexually transmitted disease.  More than 80% of cervical cancer stems from infection by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes genital warts and is transmitted during unprotected sexual activity.  Cervical cancer can be prevented be avoiding infection with HPV; sexual abstinence, mutually monogomous sex with an unifected partner, or regular use of condoms can reduce the risk of the HPV infection. Smoking and the sexually transmitted diseases herpes and chlamydia are other possible risk factors. 

Screening for the changes in cervical cells that precede cancer is done chiefly by the means of the PAP Test.  During a pelvic exam, loose cells are scraped from the cervix, spread on a slide, stained for easier viewing, and examined under a microscope to see whether they are normal in shape and size.  If cells are abnormal, a condition referred to as cervical dysplasia, the PAP Test is repeated at intervals.  Sometimes cervical cells spontaneously return to normal, but in about 1/3 of the cases, the cell changes progress toward malignancy.  If this happens, the abnormal cells must be removed.  Researchers are making significant progress in developing vaccines to remove warts , vaccinate against HPV, and hope to ultimately prevent most cases of cervical cancer. 

Uterine or Endometrial Cancer

Cancer of the lining of the uterus most often occurs after the age of 55.  The risk factors are similar to those for breast cancer, which are prolonged exposure to estrogen, early onset of menstruation, late menopause, never having been pregnant, and other medical conditions, including obesity.  The use of oral contraceptives, which combine estrogen and progestin, appears to provide protection.  Endometrial cancer is usually detectable by pelvic examination.  It is treated surgically, commonly by the removal of the uterus.  Radiation and chemotherapy may also be used to treat this disease.  When the tumor is detected at an early stage, about 86% of patients are alive and disease free 5 years later.  

Your lifestyle choice can radically lower your cancer risks, so you can take a practical approach to cancer prevention.