Symptoms women should not ignore.

• Position: Gynecological Cancer

Pelvic pain and abnormal bleeding are not the only signs of gynecological cancer. Specialists at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, share other symptoms that often are overlooked. More than 80,000 women in the U.S. are diagnosed each year with a gynecological cancer, such as cervical, endometrial (also known as uterine) or ovarian.

"Unfortunately, because symptoms for these cancers are often vague, many women mistake them for other less serious conditions," says Therese Bevers, medical director. "So, it's important to know exactly what to look for because gynecologic cancers are usually most treatable when found early."

Here are 10 symptoms of cervical and other gynecologic cancers that every woman should watch for. "Alert your doctor if these symptoms appear, especially if you've already gone through menopause," Bevers urges.

Swollen leg. Does one leg look or feel swollen for no reason? Typically, a swollen leg is not a sign of cancer unless there also is pain, discharge, or other cervical cancer symptoms.

Abnormal vaginal bleeding. More than 90% of women diagnosed with endometrial cancer experience irregular bleeding. Women who already have undergone menopause should have any bleeding--including spotting--evaluated. Women who have not gone through menopause should see a physician about bleeding between periods, heavy bleeding, or bleeding during intercourse.

Unexplained weight loss. Women who suddenly lose more than 10 pounds without changing diet or exercise habits should see their doctor.

Vaginal discharge colored with blood. Bloody, dark, or smelly discharge usually signals infection but, sometimes, it is a sign of cervical or endometrial cancer.

Constantly requiring bathroom breaks. Do you repeatedly need to use the bathroom or feel...