Talking to Your Doctor About Uterine (Endometrial) Cancer

by Debra Wood, RN

You have a unique medical history. It is important to talk to your medical care team about your personal risk factors and/or experience with uterine cancer. By talking openly and regularly with your doctor, you can take an active role in your care.

General Tips for Gathering Information

Here are some tips that will make it easier for you to talk to your doctor:

Bring someone else with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask.
Write out your questions ahead of time, so you don't forget them.
Write down the answers you get, and make sure you understand what you are hearing. Ask for clarification, if necessary.
Don't be afraid to ask your questions or ask where you can find more information about what you are discussing. You have a right to know.

Specific Questions to Ask Your Doctor

About Your Risk of Developing Uterine Cancer

Based on my medical history, lifestyle, and family background, am I at risk for uterine cancer?

About Uterine Cancer

What is the stage of cancer?
What does the stage mean?
Was the cancer caught early or has it spread?

About Treatment Options

What treatment plan do you recommend?

What are the risks and benefits associated with this treatment plan?
What clinical trials are available for me? Where are they located? How do I find out more about them?
What other options are there?
How long will the treatments last?
What side effects can I expect?
What will I need to change in my daily routine?
How will I feel during treatment?
What will I need to do to take care of myself during the treatment period?
What will we do if the treatment does not succeed?

About Lifestyle Changes

Are there lifestyle changes I can make to help my prognosis?
Can I have sexual intercourse?

About Outlook

How likely is it that my treatments will kill all the cancer cells?
How do I know that my treatment program is effective?
Do you know of any support groups or other patients I can talk with?

References:

Questions to ask your doctor about cancer. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/coping/questions. Accessed November 21, 2019.

Tips for talking to your doctor. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/tips-for-talking-to-your-doctor. Accessed November 21, 2019.

Last reviewed January 2020 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Nicole S. Meregian, PA
Last Updated: 11/4/2020

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