In this video, Professor Emma Crosbie, Professor of Gynaecological Oncology, outlines why and how we created this video series, tailored to the needs of those navigating a womb cancer diagnosis.
Welcome to our video series designed specifically for those affected by womb cancer.
Throughout this series, we explore a wide range of topics our community has highlighted as areas where more information about womb cancer and support are needed. We will be releasing new videos on a wide range of topics over time, each providing a wealth of valuable information. In some videos, you’ll hear directly from individuals who have undergone treatment for womb cancer.
We understand that a diagnosis of womb cancer can be overwhelming, and we hope these videos equip you with accurate and relevant information to help improve your experience.
Every year thousands of people receive the news that they or their loved one have womb cancer, and it can be difficult to know where to turn for reliable and trustworthy information and support.
Together with our dedicated community of people whose lives have been touched by womb cancer, we have created a series of videos that we hope will empower you and help you navigate your way through your womb cancer journey.
Remember you are not alone; Peaches is here to support you every step of the way.
Prof Emma Crosbie, Professor of Gynaecological Oncology and President of Peaches Womb Cancer Trust.
In addition to the videos created as part of this series you will find videos covering a variety of areas below. These include menopause, mental health, pre and post surgery exercises and sexual wellbeing.
What is cancer?
This video explains how gene changes in our cells can sometimes turn normal cells into cancer cells.
Understanding womb cancer
This video provides helpful information about womb cancer, focusing on the most common type – cancer of the womb lining (endometrium).
What is a “tissue block”?
This video explains what happens to tissue samples taken during womb cancer care.
Molecular classification of womb cancer
This video explains how genetic testing helps identify which of four groups—POLE-mutated, MMR-defective, p53-abnormal, or NSMP—each individual’s womb cancer belongs to.
Preparing for surgery
Recovery from surgery
Everyone’s recovery from womb cancer surgery is different. However, it is helpful to know how surgery may affect you and how to access support. Watch as Anne Lowry talks about the side effects and recovery process after surgery.
Appointment after surgery
After surgery, you will receive a follow up appointment with your Gynaecological Oncology team. This usually happens several weeks after surgery. At this appointment your recovery and wellbeing will be discussed as well as your results and whether you need any further treatment. This can be a lot of information to take in so you may find it helpful to prepare and consider any questions you may have for your healthcare team. Watch as Dr Chloe Barr discusses your first appointment after surgery.
Radiotherapy: an introduction
For some people with womb cancer, radiotherapy is an important part of treatment. Watch as Anne Lowry, Clinical Nurse Specialist in Gynaecological Oncology, explains when and why radiotherapy may be recommended, and the different types of radiotherapy available.
Radiotherapy: external beam radiotherapy
In this video, Anne Lowry, Clinical Nurse Specialist in Gynaecological Oncology, explains what to expect when having external beam radiotherapy for womb cancer. You will also hear directly from individuals who have undergone this treatment as they share their personal experiences and offer valuable tips.
Radiotherapy: side effects of external beam radiotherapy
External beam radiotherapy for womb cancer often results in side effects. Here, Anne Lowry, Clinical Nurse Specialist in Gynaecological Oncology, explains what you can expect, along with personal insights and advice from people who have experienced this treatment.
Radiotherapy: getting through external beam radiotherapy
In this video, Anna and Anne share their recommendations for managing and getting through external beam radiotherapy for womb cancer. They highlight the importance of asking questions, preparing for each session, and seeking support.
Radiotherapy: brachytherapy
Some people with womb cancer are treated with internal radiotherapy, known as brachytherapy. Watch as Anne Lowry, Clinical Nurse Specialist in Gynaecological Oncology, and those with first hand experience explain what to expect from brachytherapy and discuss using dilators to help prevent vaginal side effects.
Chemotherapy: what to expect
Some people with womb cancer may be offered chemotherapy as part of their treatment. Watch as Anne Lowry, Clinical Nurse Specialist in Gynaecological Oncology, explains what to expect from chemotherapy and hear directly from those with first hand experience of this treatment.
Chemotherapy: side effects
Chemotherapy often causes side effects. In this video, Anne Lowry, Clinical Nurse Specialist in Gynaecological Oncology, discusses the common side effects of chemotherapy for womb cancer, while individuals who have experienced these side effects share their insights and advice.
Follow up: what happens when your treatment ends
Dr Chloe Barr discusses the different types of follow-up after treatment for womb cancer, how to get help with physical and emotional challenges, and how to recognise symptoms that may indicate cancer has come back. The video also includes advice from those who have navigated post-treatment challenges.
The emotional impact of finishing treatment
Many people experience a mix of emotions when their treatment for womb cancer comes to an end. In this video, members of our Peaches’ community reflect on their experiences and share how they felt when their treatment was completed.
Accessing support and information
In this video, Dr Chloe Barr discusses the challenges of living with and beyond womb cancer, emphasising the importance of finding support. Members of our Peaches’ community share their personal experiences with getting support and offer advice on how and where to find it.
Intimate health changes
Julia Pugh (psychosexual therapist and cancer nurse specialist), Lavinia Winch (patient advocate and YES! Organic Intimacy Company Ambassador) and Dr Helen Clarke (Trustee Peaches Womb Cancer Trust) discuss what’s changed and offer practical tips to help you improve your sexual wellbeing after surgery.
Pre & post surgery exercises
Sarah Russell is a clinical exercise specialist who specialises in bowel cancer, stoma and abdominal surgery rehabilitation. This video is recommended to be watched in conjunction with Essential Core & Pelvic Floor Exercises with provides some useful introductory information.
