After a Uterine Cancer Diagnosis: Questions to Ask Your Doctor
A diagnosis of uterine cancer can be overwhelming. This fact sheet will tell you:
- How to prepare for your appointments
- What to do if you face dyspnea, or shortness of breath
- What questions will help you learn more about your diagnosis
The Importance of Communicating With Your Health Care Team
Your team of doctors, nurses and social workers are there to help. Here are some tips for your appointments.
Bring a list of questions. This will help you remember important things to ask. Write down or record the responses so that you do not forget them.
Consider bringing a loved one with you. A friend or a family member can help ask questions and provide emotional support.
Ask questions about costs. Knowing how much your treatment and medications might cost can help you plan ahead and focus more attention on getting better.
If your doctors and nurses do not know every answer, they may be able to guide you to those who do.
How Can This Affect My Fertility and Sexual Intimacy?
A hysterectomy, which involves the removal of part or all of the uterus, may affect one’s ability to have children. Talk to your health care team about all of your treatment options and the long-term effects.
Uterine cancer can also affect your feelings of intimacy, as well as your view of yourself (or self-esteem). Try to be open about your emotional and physical concerns with your doctor, who can find the help you need.
Questions That You May Want to Ask Your Health Care Team
The following questions should help you learn key information about your diagnosis and situation.
“What type of uterine cancer do I have?”
Uterine cancer happens when the cells found in the uterus begin to change and grow out of control. The main types of uterine cancer are uterine sarcomas and endometrial carcinomas.
“What stage is my uterine cancer?”
A tumor’s stage means its size and how much it has spread in the body. The higher the number (I, II, III or IV), the more it has spread.
“What are my treatment options?”
There are many kinds of treatments for uterine cancer. These can include surgery, radiation, targeted treatment and chemotherapy.
“Is there a clinical trial available to me?”
Clinical trials test new approaches based on known and effective treatments for cancer. Doctors often urge people to take part in clinical trials if they are available.
“Is surgery an option for me?”
If surgery is an option, your health care team can help you get ready. They should be able to explain what the surgery does, what recovery is like and what the effects may be.
“How can I cope with my emotions?”
In addition to loved ones, you can find help including places of worship, support groups and counseling services. Ask to speak to a social worker or patient navigator for additional support resources.
View all of CancerCare’s resources to help you better cope with uterine cancer »