There are several types of cancer that are normally found in women, which include breast, cervical, ovarian, vaginal, and colon cancer. As a woman, you need to know the warning signs of each of those diseases to be able to prevent them from occurring. If you experience any of these symptoms and you suspect that you might have cancer, you should see a doctor immediately. Chances are, you might not have it, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Here are seven signs of cancer in women you should know:

1. Pelvic Pain

Women usually feel pelvic pain (pain or pressure below the navel) before or during their monthly period. However, if the pain persists even after you’ve had your period, it could be a symptom of endometrial, ovarian, cervical, fallopian tube, or vaginal cancer.

2. Abdominal Swelling and Bloating

This is a common symptom of ovarian cancer. Sometimes it is followed by a persistent lower back pain as well. Although bloating is commonly linked to indigestion, you can’t just ignore it. Especially if it gets so bad that you can’t even button your jeans.

3. Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding

This could be a symptom of gynecologic cancer, especially when you have a heavy periods and bleeding between periods. Bleeding during and after sex could also indicate and link to cervical, uterine, and ovarian cancer.

4. Persistent Fever

You should consult a doctor if you have had fever for more than 7 days. It might be a symptom of cancer, but it could also be caused by other less life-threatening disease. Persistent stomach upset or bowel changes during the fever is something you should also worry about.Constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, or bloody stool could be a sign of colon cancer.

5. Unintentional Weight Loss

If you lose 10 or more pounds without even trying (no exercise, no diet), you should see a doctor to consult about the possibility of havingcancer. Moreover, serious weight loss could also indicate the stage of the cancer.

6. Abnormalities in the Vulva or Vagina

Vulva or vaginal abnormalities could be a symptom of vaginal cancer. These could be in the form of sores, blister, changes in skin color, and unusual discharge. Regular check-ups with a gynecologist can help you prevent gynecologic cancer.

7. Changes in the Breast

Women are advised to perform regular breast self-examination. You should look for any lumps, soreness, dimpling, swelling or nipple discharge. If you observe any changes in your breast, you should report it to a doctor immediately.

You’ve done the chemo, you’ve done the radiation and you’ve seen all the cancer specialists, what now? Cancer is one of the leading causes of death globally and to fight it you’re going to want everything on your side to battle this deadly disease. Most cancer patients will stop their treatment after they leave the hospital but there are things you can do outside the hospital to help you manage the cancer and increase your chances of survival. Changing your life style, taking supplements and building up your immune system will give your body the strength it needs to fight off, and prevent, future cancer cells.

The current 21st century lifestyle is causing more illnesses and immunity deficiencies than anyone could possibly imagine. We have lost track of the importance of nourishing our bodies with nutrients and replenishing ourselves with rest and relaxation to minimize our stress levels. Nutrient deficiencies and high stress levels are directly related to low immunity; low immunity is directly related to cancer.

The first step is to get rid of all toxins you are putting into your body on a daily basis. This means alcohol, cigarettes, refined sugars, caffeine, and everything pumped with artificial growth hormones ie: Non-organic dairy, fruit and vegetables. Secondly, don’t underestimate the importance of sleep. Sleep helps your body rejuvenate itself. Recent studies have shown that a sufficient amount of sleep can help to fight off many common diseases from the common cold to cancer. Other studies have shown that lack of sleep can cause irregular and excessive hormone release patterns of hormones like cortisol – the stress hormone, in turn resulting in low immunity.

Be proactive and avoid stress by having someone you trust deal your stressful responsibilities such as your bills, children, family feuds ect. Exercise will help boost your immune system and lower stress levels so try and get at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise a day. Relaxation is also very important to keep your stress levels low, so fill your life with more things that make you feel good, whether it’s a day at the spa, yoga, music or spending time with your family. One of life’s best stress relievers is laughter; therefore laugh at every opportunity as hard and as long as you can.

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