The Nu Guide: Gynaelogical Cancer Awareness
Because your bits deserve better!
September marks Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the gynaecological cancers that affect thousands every year. At Nu Natural, we’re all about looking after your “best bits,” so let’s talk openly and honestly about the signs, the symptoms, and what you can do to stay informed and when to seek help.
What Are Gynaecological Cancers?
These cancers start in the reproductive organs and include cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, vaginal cancer, and vulval cancer. Each type is different, but all of them are easier to treat when caught early.
What to Look Out For
It can be easy to brush off minor symptoms, especially when you’re juggling a never ending to-do list! But your body is wise and worth listening to. Here are some signs that should prompt a check-up with your GP or gynaecologist:
abnormal vaginal bleeding (between periods, after sex, or after menopause),
persistent bloating or abdominal swelling,
changes to your vulva such as itching, pain, lumps, or discolouration,
pelvic pain or pressure
difficulty with bladder bowel or sexual function
Who’s at Risk?
While anyone with a uterus, cervix, ovaries, or vulva can develop gynaecological cancer, some risk factors include: family history of ovarian, uterine, or bowel cancer; HPV infection (linked with cervical and vaginal cancers); being postmenopausal; smoking; and living with diabetes or obesity.
Screening Saves Lives
In Aotearoa New Zealand, cervical screening is free for most people aged 25 to 69 and has recently shifted to include HPV self-testing. This is a game changer in convenience and comfort. You can do this test yourself with a swab in the privacy of your GP’s clinic, or with the help of a nurse. Not sure when your last test was? Take this as your nudge to check with your medical centre.
At the moment there isnt a screening programme for ovarian cancer so its important to investigate any pelvic symptoms promptly to pick up signs early.
One of the things we hear from our patients is that they can feel unheard when they visit a healthcare practitioner
Along with our friends from The Cyclist we have created a cheat sheet to take along to your next health check to ensure you get your concerns addressed:
Write down your top 3 concerns before the appointment.
Use clear language: "This pain is interfering with my daily life."
If interrupted, pause and say: "I'd like to finish my thought."
Ask: "What else could this be?" or "What tests can we explore?"
If you're dismissed, repeat: "I hear you, but I still feel something's not right."
Remember: you're allowed a second opinion. It's not rude, it's a right.
How Nu Balm Supports You
While Nu Balm isn’t a cancer treatment, we created it to help soothe, hydrate, and protect delicate vulval tissue — particularly important during and after cancer treatments like radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or menopause-related hormone changes. Gentle. Natural. Nurturing. Because comfort matters.
Stay Connected
For more expert info, updates, and real-talk from our clinical team, follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter. Together, we’re changing the way we care for our intimate health — one conversation at a time.
