Start the Conversation: The Questions Every Woman Should Ask at Her OB-GYN Visit

You’ve probably heard the advice: “Listen to your body.”

But what does that really mean when you’re dealing with symptoms that feel easy to dismiss, spotting between periods, pelvic pressure, fatigue, or changes that don’t seem serious enough to bring up?

The truth is that sometimes the signs we brush off are the ones worth paying attention to.

Unlike breast or cervical cancer, there is no routine screening test for uterine cancer. A Pap test does not detect uterine cancer. That means one of the most important tools for early detection is your ability to recognize when something feels different and speak up about it.

This Uterine Cancer Awareness Month, we’re encouraging everyone to become their own best health advocate by asking questions, knowing the signs, and having open conversations with their healthcare provider.

Why It Matters

Uterine cancer is the most common gynecologic cancer in the United States.

In 2026, an estimated 68,270 people will be diagnosed, and approximately 14,450 will lose their lives to the disease.

While uterine cancer is most commonly diagnosed after menopause, cases among younger women are increasing. Certain risk factors, including PCOS, obesity, family history, and genetic conditions such as Lynch syndrome, can increase risk.

Black women also face disproportionately higher mortality rates, highlighting the urgent need for awareness, early detection, and equitable care.

There’s No Screening Test, What Should You Ask?

Many people assume that if something serious is wrong, a routine exam will find it.

Unfortunately, that’s not always the case with uterine cancer.

That’s why asking questions matters.

Consider bringing these questions to your next appointment:

  • “I’ve been experiencing abnormal bleeding. Could this be a sign of something more serious?”
  • “I’ve noticed pelvic pain or pressure that isn’t going away. Should we investigate further?”
  • “I know there’s no screening for uterine cancer, so what signs should I be watching for?”
  • “Does my personal or family medical history increase my risk?”
  • “What factors increase a woman’s risk for uterine cancer?”
  • “Does being in menopause change my risk for uterine cancer?”

When You Feel Like You’re Not Being Heard

Sometimes symptoms are attributed to stress, aging, weight changes, hormonal shifts, or other common explanations. While those factors may play a role, you deserve to fully understand what’s happening in your body.

If your concerns aren’t being addressed, try:

Being specific. Track symptoms, frequency, and duration before your appointment.

Revisiting the conversation. Say, “I’d like to discuss my bleeding again because it’s continuing and affecting my daily life.”

Asking for clarification. Try, “Can you help me understand why additional testing isn’t recommended at this time?”

Seeking a second opinion. Getting another perspective isn’t overreacting, it’s advocating for your health.

Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

  • Vaginal bleeding after menopause
  • Bleeding between periods
  • Unusually heavy or prolonged periods
  • Pelvic pain or pressure
  • Unexplained fatigue
  • Unexplained weight loss

These symptoms do not automatically mean cancer, but they are important signals that deserve attention.

What Self-Advocacy Really Looks Like

Self-advocacy means trusting your instincts, asking questions, and feeling empowered to seek answers:

  • Write down symptoms and questions before appointments.
  • Bring a trusted friend or family member for support.
  • Take notes during discussions with your provider.
  • Ask for explanations if something isn’t clear.
  • Keep asking questions until you feel informed and confident about your care.

Your voice matters. Your concerns matter. And your health matters.

Know the Signs. Start the Conversation.

This Uterine Cancer Awareness Month, challenge yourself to ask one more question, schedule that appointment you’ve been putting off, or encourage someone you love to do the same.

Awareness starts with conversation, and conversation can lead to earlier diagnosis, better outcomes, and lives saved.

If you or someone you love wants to learn more about uterine cancer, symptoms, risk factors, and available resources, download the Foundation for Women’s Cancer’s free educational guide, available in English, Spanish, Mandarin, and Arabic.

Know the signs. Ask the questions. Trust your body. #AskHer