Alex Kingston, a notable actress recognized for her roles in “ER” and “Doctor Who,” has bravely shared her personal journey with uterine cancer. In a recent interview with The Independent, published on October 10, she revealed the subtle symptoms that led to her “shock” diagnosis in 2024.
Understanding Uterine Cancer Symptoms
At 62, Kingston experienced persistent bloating and abdominal discomfort, which she initially attributed to aging. She remarked, “I thought, ‘OK, this is what it’s like to be in my sixties.'” However, these feelings were warnings from her body about a serious condition that she did not recognize at the time.
Among the symptoms Kingston encountered was blood in her urine. She believed it resulted from a urinary tract infection (UTI) or fibroids, never considering cancer as a possibility. This misconception led to a shocking diagnosis after unexpected symptoms escalated, including a severe hemorrhage while performing on stage in a play at the Chichester Festival in England.
Key Symptoms of Uterine Cancer
According to Kingston, the symptoms can be deceptive. Here are some common warning signs of uterine cancer:
- Vaginal bleeding between periods, especially before menopause
- Bleeding or spotting post-menopause
- Abdominal pain or pelvic cramping
- Thin, white, or clear vaginal discharge after menopause
- Heavy or frequent vaginal bleeding in women over 40
Kingston’s diagnosis revealed cancer in her fallopian tubes, fortunately without spreading to her ovaries. Following her diagnosis, she underwent a hysterectomy and completed her treatment by the end of 2024.
A Message to Women
Kingston emphasizes the importance of not ignoring symptoms. She describes womb cancer as “sneaky,” advising women to seek medical attention if something feels off. “The body does know — and that was the body saying to me, ‘Help! There’s something really wrong,’” she stated.
Her experience serves as a crucial reminder for women to listen to their bodies and consult healthcare professionals to ensure their health and well-being.
