Uterine cancer, also known as womb cancer, begins when abnormal cells develop and grow uncontrollably within the uterus. The most common type, endometrial cancer, originates in the inner lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium, accounting for approximately 95% of all uterine cancers. While some symptoms are apparent, others, like back pain, might seem unrelated, making early recognition challenging.
How Uterine Cancer Can Cause Back Pain
Uterine cancer can lead to back pain through several mechanisms as the disease progresses. A growing tumor within the uterus can exert pressure on nearby pelvic structures, affecting nerves, tissues, or organs, leading to discomfort that radiates to the lower back. As the tumor enlarges, it can also impact adjacent organs like the bladder or bowels, causing referred pain.
If the cancer spreads beyond the uterus, it can directly cause back pain. For instance, if it metastasizes to bones, particularly the spine, or to lymph nodes in the pelvic area, it can result in back pain. Back pain associated with uterine cancer tends to be persistent and may gradually worsen over time. Unlike common musculoskeletal back pain, it might not improve with typical remedies such as rest or over-the-counter pain relievers.
Other Common Symptoms of Uterine Cancer
While back pain can be a symptom, it is rarely the only indicator of uterine cancer. Abnormal vaginal bleeding is the most common symptom, occurring in a majority of cases. This can manifest as bleeding between periods, unusually heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, or any vaginal bleeding after menopause, even light spotting. Such bleeding should always prompt medical evaluation, especially for postmenopausal individuals.
Other symptoms include pelvic pain or pressure, which might feel like cramping in the lower abdomen. This pain can become persistent and may indicate that the cancer has spread. Changes in vaginal discharge, such as a watery, blood-tinged, or foul-smelling discharge, can also be a sign. Pain during sexual intercourse is another possible symptom.
Unexplained weight loss, occurring without changes in diet or exercise, is another possible symptom, particularly in later stages. Changes in bowel or bladder habits, such as difficulty or pain during urination or bowel movements, or increased frequency of urination, can occur due to tumor pressure on nearby organs.
Other Reasons for Back Pain
Back pain is a common experience with many potential causes, most of which are not related to cancer. Musculoskeletal issues are frequent culprits, including muscle strains, sprained ligaments, or herniated discs. Arthritis, which involves inflammation of the joints, can also contribute to back pain, particularly in the lower back. Poor posture or ergonomics can place undue stress on the spine, leading to chronic discomfort.
Kidney problems, such as kidney stones or infections, can cause pain that radiates to the back. Certain gynecological conditions unrelated to cancer can also manifest as back pain, including:
- Endometriosis, where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, frequently causes lower back pain, especially around menstrual periods.
- Uterine fibroids, which are noncancerous growths, can also lead to back pain if they grow large enough to press on surrounding nerves or organs.
- Ovarian cysts may cause lower back pain if they become large and exert pressure on adjacent structures.
- Pregnancy is another common cause of back pain due to changes in posture and increased strain.
- Sciatica, characterized by pain radiating down the leg, results from compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Consult a healthcare professional if back pain is persistent or worsening and does not respond to typical home remedies within a few weeks. This is especially important if the pain interferes with daily activities or disrupts sleep. Any back pain accompanied by other concerning symptoms, particularly those associated with uterine cancer, warrants prompt medical evaluation.
These include abnormal vaginal bleeding (such as post-menopausal bleeding or bleeding between periods), new or unusual pelvic pain, unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel or bladder habits, or unusual vaginal discharge. For post-menopausal individuals, any new or unusual back pain should be discussed with a healthcare provider, even without other symptoms, as the risk of uterine cancer increases with age.